Abstract 078: Caresto heal: First multicenter experiences with a new 3rdgeneration carotid stent

Introduction The CARESTO heal is a coated carotid stent aiming to support atherosclerotic plaques by using a dense single‐layer mesh. Due to its great flexibility, it easily navigates through tortuous anatomies. Additionally, the CARESTO features the anti‐thrombogenic HEAL coating. Aim of Study The objective of this study is to examine the technical specifics, advantages, and possible obstacles associated with the innovative stent design of the CARESTO heal. Method The first CARESTO implantations including data on procedural safety and efficacy have been retrospectively analyzed. Pre‐treatment carotid plaque characterization was performed. For elective cases double antiplatelet medication was administered while acute cases were treated under Aspirin only. Results 66 patients from ten European neurovascular centers have been treated, including Carotid Webs and ICA dissections. The mean age was 68 years with a median degree of pre‐treatment stenosis of 63%. Mean post‐treatment stenosis was 10% with a technical success rate of 100%. One peri‐procedural retinal ischemia occurred, but no other severe complications have been observed. Already available six weeks and six months ultra sound follow up showing no recurrence of stenosis nor new neurological events. Conclusion This multicenter study shows that the CARESTO heal Stent is both safe and effective in treating carotid stenosis. Additional analysis with full follow‐up data will offer thorough insights into the stent's long‐term safety and efficacy. The carotid stenting technique using the CARESTO heal differs technically from other carotid stents but is particularly advantageous in challenging, tortuous vessel anatomies and in the treatment of highly vulnerable plaques.