Your physician will begin by assessing your risk factors. If you are at an increased risk, he may refer you for additional tests such as a carotid artery sonogram. This simple and painless test can often be completed in a physician's office.

If necessary, a minimally invasive surgical procedure can tell a more detailed story about your vascular health and stroke risk.

Paul Christenberry, MD, FACS, performs this procedure, called vascular angiography, in KCMC's new cardiovascular lab. It involves inserting a small tube into your carotid, or other affected artery, and guiding it to the obstruction via X-ray. Next, he injects a contrast dye to reveal the extent of the obstruction. The information garnered during this exam allows determination of the best course of treatment - surgical or medicinal.