Medically Reviewed by Dr.Ranajit Beeranna Naik ,Cardio Vascular Thoracic Surgery
Written by KIE Editorial Contributors
Carotid endarterectomy is a preventive surgery to reduce the risk of stroke by removing plaque buildup in the carotid arteries. These arteries are crucial for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the brain, and narrowing in these vessels increases stroke risk significantly. The procedure is often recommended when lifestyle changes and medications are not enough to manage the condition.
Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) from inside one of the carotid arteries, located on each side of the neck. These arteries carry blood from the heart to the brain. The procedure helps prevent stroke by restoring normal blood flow.
The procedure is typically performed by a vascular surgeon in a hospital setting equipped with specialized imaging and monitoring tools. It is often done in facilities that offer stroke prevention programs.
Carotid endarterectomy is performed to prevent stroke or treat narrowing of the carotid artery. This narrowing is often caused by atherosclerosis. The surgery is usually recommended if:
Carotid endarterectomy is often chosen over carotid artery stenting in patients with favorable anatomy and lower surgical risk. Your doctor will determine the best option based on your overall health and severity of blockage.
Preparing ahead ensures both a safer surgery and a smoother recovery. Here’s what to expect before your carotid endarterectomy:
Depending on hospital protocols, you may also be screened for infections such as COVID-19 before surgery. Follow your hospital safety and admission guidelines closely.
This is a step-by-step look at the carotid endarterectomy procedure:
Knowing the typical recovery timeline helps you plan for a gradual return to your normal routine after surgery.
After the procedure, lifestyle changes are essential to maintain artery health and reduce stroke risk:
Regular ultrasound imaging is recommended to monitor the artery for any signs of re-narrowing. Your doctor may recommend ultrasound scans at regular intervals—typically at 6 months, 12 months, and then annually—to ensure the artery remains open and healthy.
Carotid endarterectomy surgery provides several important health benefits, especially for people at high risk of stroke.
In some cases, carotid artery stenting may be considered as a less invasive alternative, especially for patients who are at high risk for surgery. Medications like antiplatelet drugs, cholesterol-lowering agents, and lifestyle changes are often used alongside or in place of surgery for milder cases.
Like any surgical procedure, carotid endarterectomy carries certain risks that patients should be aware of and discuss with their doctor.
Still, in most cases, the benefits outweigh the risks, especially for symptomatic patients.
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No, endarterectomy is open surgery to remove plaque, while a stent is placed using a catheter to keep the artery open. Both treat carotid artery narrowing but are done differently.
During the procedure, a surgeon makes an incision in the neck, opens the carotid artery, removes plaque buildup, and then closes the artery to restore normal blood flow to the brain.
The most common complication is stroke. Others include nerve injury, bleeding, or infection. However, the overall risk is low when done by experienced surgeons.
The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours. Recovery in the hospital may last a day or two, depending on your condition and response to the surgery.
Many patients live for years after the procedure, especially if they manage risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking. The surgery helps lower stroke risk significantly.
No, but it significantly lowers the risk of stroke caused by carotid artery narrowing. It doesn’t prevent strokes from other causes like blood clots from the heart.
Eversion endarterectomy may have a lower risk of restenosis (re-narrowing) and less need for patch closure. Both techniques are safe when done by experienced surgeons.
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