Risk Analysis for Cholesterol Crystal Embolism after Carotid Artery Stenting

Abstract

  Cholesterol crystal embolism (CCE) is a severe complication of carotid artery stenting (CAS). Here we describe the occurrence and risk factors for CCE after CAS. We evaluated the 35 patients treated with CAS in our hospital. Of these patients, 1 was diagnosed with CCE, and 3 were possible CCE. In these 4 patients, the postprocedure estimated glomerular filtration rate was lower and blood eosinophil count was higher compared to those in patients without CCE. In addition, all the CCE patients had shaggy aorta at the thoracic region. Multiple regression analysis identified shaggy aorta at the thoracic region as an independent risk factor for CCE (odds ratio 55.2, 95% CI : 1.18-2.586). We should pay attention for CCE, although it is a rare complication of CAS.