There are two competing treatments for atherosclerotic stenosis of the carotid artery, a major cause of stroke carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS). There have been various studies of the comparative medical merits of both methods. However, there is a lack of research on factors affecting patients' preference, and the aim of this pilot- study was to attempt to determine the factors contributing to this. 15 patients, including International Carotid Stenting Study participants, and those from the Stroke unit ward and outpatients clinic, were given a standard questionnaire, covering safety, side- effects, personal fears and willingness to pay. After reading an information sheet, the patients were asked to fill in the questionnaire without intervention from myself. A 2 to 1 majority of interviewees stated a preference for stenting over surgery. The strongest factors in patients' choice appeared to be perceived risk, concern over side effects, and anxiety in regard to type of anaesthesia. It is clear that a larger study is required, perhaps with some modification to the questionnaire and a more representative sample of interviewees
