Neurovascular and Stroke Institute FAQs

A. Endovascular stenting is a minimally invasive way to repair a blocked artery in the neck or brain. A stent is a small expandable mesh (metal alloy) tube that is placed in a blocked artery to help keep it open and reinforce the weakened artery walls. The stent remains in place as a permanent implant in your artery.

A. As with all surgeries, you will be asked to sign a standard consent form prior to surgery and your surgeon will discuss the specifics of any risks associated with your individual situation. If you have any questions prior to surgery, please do not hesitate to ask your doctor or any other member of your health care team.

A. Endovascular embolization is a minimally invasive medical procedure to treat abnormal blood vessels in the brain and other parts of the body. By inserting a small catheter into the artery through a small incision in the groin area, the surgeon can then insert either a liquid substance called Onyx, platinum coils, or both through the catheter to fill the aneurysm.

Coils are long strands of very thin wire that look almost like guitar strings, while Onyx is a putty-like substance. In certain instances both Onyx and coils may be used to fill an aneurysm, but the ultimate goal is the same—to fill the aneurysm with a substance, that will harden and block blood flow into the aneurysm, eliminating the pressure and risk of rupture.

A. As we tell all patients, it is important to actively pursue a healthier lifestyle to help reduce your risk of stroke in the future. Immediate steps to a healthier lifestyle include:

• Stop smoking
• Regular exercise
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Eating a healthy diet; watching sodium intact
• Maintaining a healthy blood pressure
• Taking all medication as directed

A. Dr. Eric Eskioglu and Dr. Brian Mason both have privileges at Physicians Regional Healthcare System which consists of the following hospitals:

Physicians Regional - Pine Ridge
6101 Pine Ridge Road
Naples, Florida 34119
Phone: (239) 348-4000

Physicians Regional - Collier
8300 Collier Boulevard
Naples, Florida 34114
Phone: (239) 354-6000