Vertebral Artery Stenosis is a condition that can silently reduce the blood flow to the posterior part of the brain. The posterior part of the brain controls the heart rate, respiratory rate, hand and leg movements, ability to speak, eye coordination, ability to swallow our saliva, as well as walk stably. A stroke in the posterior part of the brain due to narrowing in the artery supplying it is very critical. To prevent major complications, early diagnosis and professional care are crucial.
At our clinic, under the expert guidance of Dr. Amit Aslam Khan, one of the top Neurovascular Interventionists, we offer advanced diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment options for vertebral artery stenosis with a compassionate and personalized approach.
What is Vertebral Artery Stenosis?
The Vertebral Artery Stenosis runs through the neck, supplying blood to the back of the brain. When these arteries become narrowed, due to plaque (atherosclerosis) or neck injuries, it is called Vertebral Artery Stenosis.
The narrowing of the blood flow to the blood stem and cause symptoms such as dizziness, double vision, inability to see our field of vision, difficulty in speaking, weakness in hands and legs, and inability to walk properly if left untreated.
Early Symptoms: What to Look Out for
Vertebral artery stenosis can be silent in the early stages. However, common warning signs include:
- Frequent dizziness or vertigo
- Blurred or double vision
- Unsteadiness or imbalance while walking
- Neck pain, especially during movement
- Tingling and Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs
- Sudden episodes of fainting (drop attacks)
If you experience any of these, it’s important to consult a specialist promptly.
Who is at Risk?
This is more common among individuals with:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol levels
- Smoking history
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Past neck trauma or spine degeneration
Adopting a heart-healthy, mindful lifestyle can reduce risk and support treatment.
Diagnosis: Advanced imaging for Accurate Results
At our clinic, Dr. Amit Aslam Khan uses cutting-edge imaging tools to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity:
- CT Angiography (CTA)
- MR Angiography (MRA)
- Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) – the gold standard in vascular imaging
These tests are safe, non-invasive, or minimally invasive, and help create a clear treatment plan accordingly.
Treatment Options: From mindful care to modern Procedures
Mild to Moderate cases may be managed with:
- Medications (Blood thinners, stains)
- Blood pressure and diabetes control
- Diet and lifestyle changes
- Yoga, meditation, and stress reduction
Severe Cases often require endovascular procedures:
- Ballon Angioplasty
This is a minimally invasive procedure used to widen the narrowed portion of the vertebral artery. Here’s how it works:
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- A thin, flexible tube called a Catheter is inserted through a small incision, usually in the wrist or groin.
- The catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the site of narrowing in the vertebral artery.
- A tiny balloon that is fastened to the catheter is gradually inflated.
- Compressing the plaque against the artery wall widens the inflation of the vessel and improves the blood flow.
- Once the artery is widened, the balloon is deflated and removed.
Key benefits:
No open surgery required
Shorter recovery time
Local anesthesia only
- Stening
In many cases, stenting is frequently used after balloon angioplasty to ensure the artery remains open for the long term.
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- A tiny, mesh-like metal tube called a stent is inserted at the narrowing site.
- Once in position, the stent expands and acts as a scaffold, keeping the artery open permanently.
- Then the stent remains in place inside the artery for life, helping maintain smooth blood flow to the brain.
Why Stenting?
Prevents the artery from narrowing again
Provides long-term stability
Reduce the risk of future strokes
Why Choose Dr. Amit Aslam Khan?
- 20+ years of experience in neurovascular interventions
- Specialist in treating complex brain and spine vascular diseases
- Minimally invasive, image-guided techniques
“Endovascular treatment is like opening the door for oxygen to reach your brain again. It’s precise, gentle, and life-saving.” – Dr. Amit Aslam Khan