Abbott Announces Launch of Next-Generation Embolic Protect...( Approximately 25 percent of strokes a...),Health

Approximately 25 percent of strokes are caused by carotid artery disease. In carotid artery disease, arteries located on either side of the neck that supply blood to the brain become narrowed or blocked due to the deposit of fatty plaques that can lead to stroke. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in developed countries, exceeded only by heart disease and cancer(i).

The traditional surgical treatment for carotid artery disease usually entails general anesthesia and involves an incision in the patient's neck and artery to remove plaque from inside the vessel wall. Carotid artery stenting is a minimally invasive treatment option. During a carotid stenting procedure, an embolic protection system and stent are deployed using a catheter inserted into a small puncture in an artery in the patient's groin area. The patient usually remains conscious while the stent is implanted at the site of the blockage. The stent remains in place, propping open the carotid artery and restoring normal blood flow to the brain. Most patients return home the day after the carotid stenting procedure.

About Abbott Vascular

Abbott Vascular, a division of Abbott, is one of the world's leading vascular care businesses. Abbott Vascular is uniquely focused on advancing the treatment of vascular disease and improving patient care by combining the latest medical device innovations with world-class pharmaceuticals, investing in research and development, and advancing medicine through training and education. Headquartered in Northern California, Abbott Vascular offers a comprehensive portfolio of vessel closure, endovascular and coronary products.

About Abbott

Abbott is a global, broad-based health care company devoted to the discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of pharmaceuticals and medical products, including nutritionals, devices and diagnostics. The company employs more than 72,000 peo
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