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Stroke and Carotid Artery Disease Program

As one of the nation’s top comprehensive vascular centers, Mass General Brigham provides expert care for carotid artery disease and stroke. Our internationally recognized team provides advanced treatments and coordinated care, with a focus on ongoing follow-up (medical and surgical) to support each patient’s health and recovery over time.
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Leading the way in stroke and carotid artery care

Time and expertise matter when it comes to stroke. We are leaders in treating stroke and carotid artery disease, which occurs when the main blood vessels to the brain become narrowed.

Our team combines expertise across neurology, neurosurgery, vascular surgery, vascular medicine, and imaging. We participate in most major clinical studies evaluating new medications for carotid artery disease, as well as new less invasive procedures. This enables us to offer patients promising new treatments.

As a state-designated Primary Stroke Center, we provide 24/7 emergency treatment. We also offer virtual telestroke expertise to diagnose and treat patients at 12 community hospitals.

Part of the Heart and Vascular Institute

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Our approach to stroke and carotid artery disease

When treating stroke and carotid artery disease, expertise and timeliness can save brain function. We bring together specialists from different fields to provide an accurate diagnosis and personalized care.
One point of contact for a team of specialists
We assign each patient to one clinician who organizes their care across members of a multidisciplinary team. From diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, we will guide you through the process.
Neurovascular imaging for diagnosis

Our neurovascular radiologists and other imaging specialists focus solely on vascular disease. We’re trained to detect changes with precision and speed so we can begin treatment right away. Tests we use include:

  • CT scans
  • Duplex ultrasound
  • Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)
  • Contrast angiography
Stroke prevention
Our primary goal is to prevent stroke before it happens. We help you take control of your health and reduce your vascular risk with a combination of platelet-blocking drugs, blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering medications, and blood pressure control agents along with lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, controlling your blood pressure, and eating a healthy diet.
Surgical and interventional procedures

Our team is at the forefront of treatments that restore blood flow. We may use carotid endarterectomy to remove plaque from the arteries. This surgery is an effective way to prevent stroke caused by carotid stenosis.

Alternatively, we also perform angioplasty and stenting. This interventional procedure uses a catheter with a balloon on the end to widen an artery. A metal mesh stent is then inserted to keep it open.

Medical therapy
Regardless of whether a procedure is part of your treatment plan, we will also optimize your medication management to ensure a healthy recovery and prevent recurrence.
Promising new treatments

We’re leaders in developing new treatments through clinical trials and research. Our research gives you access to the latest technologies and medications for stroke and carotid stenosis. It also helps us find new ways to use existing treatments more effectively and safely.

Our team is involved in several clinical trials, including research on the following topics:

  • Outcomes of surgery versus stenting
  • Language loss and memory loss following a stroke
  • Wrist-worn sensors used in stroke rehabilitation
Tracking patients' results

We’re one of the only hospitals in the nation to independently track our patients’ outcomes. Doing so helps ensure we meet the highest standards for stroke and carotid artery disease treatment.

We use the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale to document our progress before and after every procedure. This data allows us to continuously refine our techniques and provide you with the most effective results.

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Our approach
We treat a range of vascular conditions using endovascular procedures and other treatments that promote your long-term heart health.
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Conditions and treatments

Our heart and vascular specialists

Your care is supported by a team of specialists who work together to understand your cardiovascular condition and create a personalized treatment plan. This team may include cardiologists, cardiac and vascular surgeons, interventional specialists, radiologists, and experienced nurses.
An illustration of a care team.
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Call the Heart and Vascular Institute

8336422863
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Specialists

  • Heart and Vascular Institute

    Learn about the Mass General Brigham Heart and Vascular Institute’s work to advance cardiovascular care, research, education, and community impact.

  • Neuroscience Institute

    Get expert care for brain and nervous system disorders at the Mass General Brigham Neuroscience Institute. Explore programs, find specialists, and request an appointment.

  • Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Program

    Access recent advances in vascular surgery at Mass General Brigham, including the latest treatments for a range of heart and vascular conditions.

  • Cardio-Neurology Program

    The Mass General Brigham Cardio-Neurology Program provides neurological evaluation and care for conditions where heart health affects brain function, including stroke related to patent foramen ovale (PFO).

  • Young Adult Stroke Program

    The Mass General Brigham Young Adult Stroke Program provides care for the unique medical and life needs of people who experience a stroke at a younger age, typically between 18 and 55.

  • Peripheral Artery Disease

    Learn about peripheral artery disease (PAD), including symptoms and treatment options available at Mass General Brigham Heart and Vascular.

  • Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Program

    Manage your heart disease risk factors and get cardiac rehab support with the Mass General Brigham Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Program.

  • Coronary Artery Disease Program

    At the Heart and Vascular Institute, we diagnose and treat blocked and narrowed arteries using advanced imaging, minimally invasive procedures, and coordinated lifelong care.

  • Stroke and Cerebrovascular Disease Care

    Find comprehensive care for stroke and cerebrovascular conditions. specialized diagnosis, advanced treatment, and treatment options at Mass General Brigham.

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Events, information sessions, and support groups

Find opportunities to learn, connect with others, and get support throughout your care journey.
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Explore articles featuring expert insights on heart and vascular care, patient experiences, and tips for managing a cardiovascular diagnosis.

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Contact the Stroke and Carotid Artery Disease Program

Call us to speak with a team member who can help you understand your options and guide you to the care that is right for you. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
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833-642-2863
8336422863
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International Patient Services

Contact information for international patients

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