Screening for carotid artery stenosis: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement

Screening for carotid artery stenosis: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement

1st December 2007
United States Preventive Services Task Force
Summary, Abstract

Source: National Guidelines Clearinghouse

GUIDELINE OBJECTIVE(S)
  • To summarize the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations and supporting scientific evidence on screening for carotid artery stenosis
  • To update the 1996 USPSTF recommendations on screening for carotid artery stenosis
TARGET POPULATION

Adults without neurologic signs or symptoms, including a history of transient ischemic attacks or stroke

INTERVENTIONS AND PRACTICES CONSIDERED

Note: The following was considered but not recommended:

Routine screening for carotid artery stenosis using duplex ultrasonography or other screening tests

MAJOR OUTCOMES CONSIDERED

Key Question 1: Is there direct evidence that screening adults with ultrasound for asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis (CAS) reduces fatal and/or nonfatal stroke?

Key Question 2: What is the accuracy and reliability of ultrasound to detect clinically important CAS?

Key Question 3: For people with asymptomatic CAS 60% to 99%, does intervention with carotid endarterectomy (CEA) reduce CAS-related morbidity or mortality?

Key Question 4: Does screening or CEA for asymptomatic CAS 60% to 99% result in harm?