Pilot study of early versus delayed carotid endarterectomy (CEA) for small to medium-sized ischemic stroke caused by high-grade carotid stenosis.

Pilot study of early versus delayed carotid endarterectomy (CEA) for small to medium-sized ischemic stroke caused by high-grade carotid stenosis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18 and older.
• New small to medium-sized ischemic stroke (defined as less than 1/3 of the MCA territory) in the territory of 70% or greater carotid stenosis.
• Women of child-bearing potential will be included only if there is a negative pregnancy test and they agree to birth control during the treatment period.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients judged to be a poor surgical candidate by the treating physicians.
• Unstable neurological status.