Balance and Mobility Function Improve After Revascularization for Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis

Abstract

Asymptomatic carotid stenosis (ACS) has recently been associated with cognitive impairment. We have found that approximately 50% of patients with ACS demonstrate cognitive impairment with deficits seen in working memory, attention, and learning. Based on these findings, we studied the association between carotid stenosis and mobility function. We found similar impairments in balance and mobility that worsened with increasing degrees of stenosis. Because these deficits were associated with concomitant stenosis-related impairment in cerebrovascular hemodynamics, we hypothesized that carotid revascularization in patients with high-grade (≥70% diameter-reducing) ACS would lead to improved balance and mobility function.