My husband who was 67 in March of 2009 had a dissection of the carotid atery right side massive stroke they said it was 100% closed (3 opinioins) and nothing could be done.  Last year still 100% closed.  He had mini stroke symptoms recently and now they say in the last few months the so called 100% closed atery is having blood flow.  Is this good or bad news that suddenly its flowing blood again?
Hello! Thank you for asking on Chat Doctor! Regarding your concern, I would explain that as this artery was 100% closed, his brain has functioned without it during this time. This has happened using the collateral blood circulation, which are small branches that connect different arteries in the brain. It is true that when an artery is 100% closed, it causes a brain stroke and there is no need to open it again, as the consequences are irreversible. From the other hand, it happens during dissection of the artery that the blood flow may start again. This is a good thing, because it helps the collateral circulation function better. From the other hand, as there are dead brain cells, hemorrhages can occur in this damaged area of the brain. That is why it is important maintaining a normal blood pressure and avoid possible spikes in blood pressure which can lead to hemorrhage. Hope you will find this answer helpful! Best wishes,