Cardiologist-please. 62 yr old female-otherwise healthy has a carotid blocked-about. 39 percent. dr. states crestor (rosuvastatin) has dissolved stenosis in patients?

Carotid ultrasound: A carotid ultrasound provides an estimate of the degree of "blockage." a range is used based on velocity of blood going through the vessel. In most cases if the estimated "blockage" that is less than 30 percent for a patient your age is not unusual. No surgical intervention or stents required. Crestor (rosuvastatin) or other statin medication will not dissolve plaque, but may keep the plaque stable.

Really? I wish!: Statins stabilize plaque but have not been shown to "dissolve" plaque. 39% carotid stenosis is mild blockage and should be followed closely with annual carotid duplex scan...There is no indication for intervention if asympyomatic. Anti-platelet agents are also an important part of the regimen, Aspirin being the most common.

Would not treat: 39% stenosis would not treat with cas or endarterectomy. Modify risk factors of htn, lipids, diabetes, smoking, inactive lifestyle, etc. Lipid meds will usually stabilize the plaque, there can be minor regression. I regression of 40% would be very unusual.