Doctors at the University Clinical Center of Kosovo (QKUK) have successfully performed carotid artery stenting for the first time, marking a milestone in the country’s vascular surgery capabilities, officials said on Saturday.
The procedure was carried out in collaboration between QKUK’s Vascular Surgery Clinic and Dr. Dimitrios Nikas from the University of Ioannina, Greece, KosovaPress reported.
“Today is a historic day for Kosovo as we introduce a new treatment method that has not been available in our country until now,” said Hajriz Rudari, director of QKUK’s Vascular Surgery Clinic.
The inaugural procedure involved three male patients over the age of 70, including a 72-year-old with chronic illnesses whose condition required the intervention. “The procedure lasted about two and a half hours due to unexpected complications, but it was successfully completed,” Rudari said.
Doctors emphasized the life-saving potential of the procedure. “Had the patient not been treated, he could have suffered a stroke, paralysis, or even death. This is a preventive treatment, and everything went according to plan,” Rudari added.
Minimally Invasive Alternative to Surgery
Dr. Dimitrios Nikas, who assisted in the procedure, highlighted that carotid stenosis is a leading cause of strokes, making carotid stenting a crucial intervention.
“Up to one in 20 strokes occur due to carotid stenosis,” Nikas said. “Previously, we relied on endarterectomy, a surgical procedure, but now we have an alternative – carotid stenting. This involves placing a stent inside the artery without the need for open surgery.”
While endarterectomy remains the preferred treatment for many patients, Nikas said stenting can offer similar benefits with less discomfort and a faster recovery. “Patients can be on their feet the next day and discharged from the hospital, requiring only a short course of medication,” he explained.
Expanding Vascular Surgery in Kosovo
Doctors at QKUK view this intervention as the first step in advancing vascular surgery in Kosovo.
“This is just the beginning,” said Dr. Lulëzim Vokrri, adding that further developments in vascular surgery are expected.
Dr. Luan Jaha said that in the near future, QKUK plans to introduce additional treatments for arteries in the extremities and the aorta. “This marks the start of a new chapter in vascular disease treatment in Kosovo,” he said.
Hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, aging, and genetic predisposition are among the primary risk factors for carotid artery disease, Rudari noted.
The project for carotid artery stenting interventions has been supported by the Government of Kosovo, including the Ministry of Health and the World Bank, according to KosovaPress.
