What is the rate of in-stent restenosis after vertebral artery ostial stenting?
In-stent restenosis (ISR) is a narrowing of the artery inside the stent after it has been placed. For vertebral artery ostial stenting, which treats narrowing at the origin of the vertebral artery, ISR is a known complication that can lead to recurrent symptoms or stroke. The rate of ISR varies across studies, but it is generally reported between 13.5% and 37.2%, depending on the patient group and how long they are followed.
What the research says
A 2018 study of 206 patients with 229 stents found ISR in 13.5% of stents (31 out of 229) after a mean follow-up of about 11 months 6. A 2023 study of 793 patients reported a higher mean ISR rate of 37.2% in the training group and 35.2% in the validation group, with a median follow-up of 27.8 months 5. A retrospective cohort of 525 patients who had 564 stenting procedures found ISR in 15.8% of stents (89 out of 564) over a mean follow-up of 56 months, with most cases (70 out of 89) detected within the first year 3. These differences likely reflect variations in patient characteristics, stent types, and follow-up protocols.
What to ask your doctor
- What is my personal risk of in-stent restenosis after vertebral artery stenting, based on my stent size and other health factors?
- How often should I have follow-up imaging to check for restenosis, and what imaging is recommended?
- What symptoms should I watch for that might indicate restenosis, and when should I seek medical attention?
- Are there any lifestyle changes or medications that could lower my risk of restenosis?
- If restenosis occurs, what treatment options are available and what are their success rates?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Cardiology and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.