Narrowing carotid arteries block blood flow to the brain and increase the risk of suffering a stroke, one of the most devastating causes of disability and death. 

But a revolutionary study — the CREST2 trial — has demonstrated that a minimally invasive carotid artery stenting procedure helps prevent strokes in people with significant blockage and no stroke symptoms.

The findings of the international study challenged long-standing assumptions that a more invasive open surgery (carotid endarterectomy) was more effective in preventing strokes, and underscore the huge advances in technical innovation in minimally invasive options.

As one of just 155 sites in the international study, Endeavor Health’s participation in the landmark study helped change the course of treatment for carotid disease going forward and gave patients like Sandra McNeela a far brighter future.

The last patient enrolled in the trial, 73-year-old McNeela is beyond grateful for the opportunity to participate in the study and the tremendous care she received from Endeavor Health neurosurgeon William Ares, MD.

A change in her blood pressure and a slight dizziness led an otherwise healthy McNeela to talk to her physician who encouraged her to see a neurologist and have things checked out. A CT scan showed close to a 75% blockage in her right carotid artery.

McNeela had a carotid artery stenting with Dr. Ares at Endeavor Health Evanston Hospital in July 2024 and has also undergone intensive medical management as part of the study. She spent just one night in the hospital and felt great after the procedure. A scan one month after the procedure showed the blockage was gone.

The mother of four and grandmother of 11 has a full active life with her family, grandkids’ sporting events, travel and her career in banking.

“I promise my kids I’ll think about retirement, but I still like going to work,” laughed McNeela, who is a native of Wales and goes back to visit family in Ireland annually.

Sandy Sandra McNeela-6-within-copy with family

Pictured above: McNeela with some of her grandchildren

Positive outcomes pave the way for future improvements

“We had great outcomes with this trial, and I am so appreciative of all our patients who are willing to participate,” said Dr. Ares. “This study paves the way for more advancement with newer technology, new and safer stents that are even easier to deploy. These results are a testimony to how far this medical specialty has come and how patients can benefit from these minimally invasive options.”

“I am very fortunate and feel very lucky to have had this opportunity. I was really confident as soon as I met Dr. Ares. I trusted him immediately and appreciated his compassion and his great communication,” said McNeela. “Going forward I hope everyone in this situation has the same opportunity.”

The medical management element of the trial arms patients with information, lifestyle coaching and medication, when appropriate, to control other risk factors, including blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes.

McNeela now takes one baby aspirin a day and is more focused on a healthy diet and exercise than she was before participating in the trial.

“I think about the fact that I probably was going to have a stroke without this. My grandfather had a stroke at 73 and died at 75 and my risk was there. This whole experience makes you think about your health more seriously. I am so grateful and blessed to have had the referral to this trial, and so glad I didn’t have to go through a more invasive procedure,” said McNeela.

Interested in clinical trials?

The Endeavor Health Research Institute is home to more than 550 active clinical trials. Explore current studies, what participation involves, and how you can get involved. Learn more

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