Strokes secondary to carotid stenosis form only a small percentage of these strokes. The occlusion of the artery usually develops slowly. Atherosclerotic plaque does not necessarily cause stroke . There are many small blood vessels around the carotid arteries. If there is enough collateral circulation, even a totally blocked artery may not cause neurologic deficits.
Risks are the same as for stroke secondary to atherosclerosis.
Stroke secondary to carotid stenosis Please read this Important notice .