Arm squeeze could shield brain during risky artery surgery

This study tested whether a simple, non-invasive technique called remote ischemic conditioning could protect the brain during surgery to clear a clogged neck artery. 100 patients in China were randomly assigned to receive either the real treatment or a very mild version. The treatment involved repeatedly squeezing and releasing a blood pressure cuff on the arm for six days before surgery, with the goal of reducing new, tiny brain injuries seen on MRI scans.