Carotid angioplasty is a procedure which opens clogged arteries in the carotid arteries,the main arteries that supply blood to the brain. This procedure helps prevent and/or treat stroke. The procedure involves temporarily inserting and inflating a tiny balloon where the carotid artery is clogged to widen the artery. Carotid angioplasty is often combined with stenting which is the placement of a small metal coil called a stent in the clogged artery. The stent helps prop the artery open and decreases the chance of it narrowing again. Carotid angioplasty and stenting may be used when traditional surgery is not an option due to age or other risks.