Innominate artery stenosis

What is Innominate Artery Stenosis?

Innominate artery stenosis refers to a narrowing or blockage in the innominate artery, also known as the brachiocephalic artery.

This artery is crucial as it branches off the aortic arch and supplies blood to the right common carotid artery, right subclavian artery, and the right side of the head and neck.

Side Effects of Innominate Artery Stenosis

When the innominate artery becomes narrowed due to stenosis, it can lead to various health complications. Patients may experience symptoms such as:

• Chest pain: Due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
• Arm weakness or numbness: Especially on the right side.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Resulting from decreased blood supply to the brain.
• High blood pressure: As the heart works harder to pump blood through the narrowed artery.

If left untreated, severe cases of innominate artery stenosis can lead to stroke or heart attack.

How is Innominate Artery Stenosis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing innominate artery stenosis typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and imaging tests such as:

• Duplex ultrasound: To visualize blood flow and detect narrowing.
• CT angiography (CTA) or Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): Provides detailed images of the innominate artery and surrounding blood vessels.
• Angiography: A procedure where a contrast dye is injected into the arteries followed by X-rays to identify blockages.

These diagnostic tests help healthcare providers accurately assess the extent and location of the stenosis.

Potential Treatment of Innominate Artery Stenosis

Treatment options for innominate artery stenosis depend on the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health. Possible treatments include:

• Medication: Prescribed to manage symptoms such as blood thinners to prevent clot formation or medications to control blood pressure.
• Angioplasty and Stenting: A minimally invasive procedure where a catheter with a balloon is used to widen the narrowed artery, followed by placing a stent to keep it open.
• Surgery: In cases where angioplasty is not feasible or effective, surgical procedures like bypass grafting may be considered to reroute blood flow around the narrowed segment.

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