European carotid angioplasty trial.

The Carotid and Vertebral Artery Transluminal Angioplasty Study (CAVATAS) is an international multicenter randomized trial, the primary aims of which are: (1) to determine the risks and benefits of carotid and vertebral artery transluminal angioplasty; and (2) to compare these with surgical treatment (carotid endarterectomy) or best medical treatment. Through the end of October 1995, 193 patients have been randomized (90 at our center). In this article, the rationale for the trial, its design and protocol, and the experience of our institution within the trial will be discussed.