Stroke statistics for the United States are nothing short of staggering. It is now the third-leading cause of death, and there were more than 750,000 strokes reported in 2000, according to the American Stroke Association. Of these, 188,000 individuals died and more than 80 percent were first-time strokes.
Stroke accounts for about 1 of every 15 deaths in the United Sates and approximately half of these occur outside of the hospital. For stroke survivors, there can be devastating disabilities such as paralysis and speech impairment from neurological damage.
The Arizona Heart Institute is participating in several research studies aimed at preventing and treating strokes.
For information on carotid artery disease and stroke, please see our online brochure.
Carotid Stenting
An alternative to endarterectomy to treat carotid artery disease is called carotid-stent supported angioplasty. The Arizona Heart Institute is now offering this less invasive procedure for certain patients who meet specific criteria.