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Carotid Endarterectomy: What You Need to Know About This Life-Saving Surgery
Published: Dec 23, 2023
Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove plaque buildup from the carotid arteries in your neck. This operation can help prevent strokes in people with narrowed or blocked carotid arteries.
Who Needs This Surgery?
Carotid endarterectomy is typically recommended for people with moderate to severe narrowing of the carotid arteries, especially if they've had stroke symptoms. Your doctor will carefully evaluate if the benefits outweigh the risks in your case. Factors like age, overall health, and severity of artery blockage are all considered.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The surgery is performed through an incision in the neck. The surgeon opens the carotid artery and carefully removes the plaque buildup inside. They may use a patch to close the artery, which can help prevent it from narrowing again. The whole procedure usually takes 1-2 hours.
Risks and Recovery
Like any surgery, carotid endarterectomy has some risks, including stroke, heart attack, or bleeding. However, in experienced hands, serious complications are rare. Most people spend 1-2 days in the hospital and can return to normal activities within a few weeks. You'll need follow-up tests to check how well the artery is staying open.
Alternatives to Consider
For some patients, less invasive options like carotid stenting may be appropriate. This involves inserting a small tube to prop the artery open. Lifestyle changes and medications to control risk factors are also important for all patients with carotid artery disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically 1-2 hours.
Over 95% when done by experienced surgeons.
You may have local or general anesthesia.
Usually within 1-2 weeks.
Possibly, if plaque builds up again over time.
The Bottom Line
Carotid endarterectomy is a well-established, effective procedure for preventing strokes in people with severely narrowed carotid arteries.
References
- Chaturvedi S, et al. Neurology. 2005;65(6):794-801.
- Brott TG, et al. Stroke. 2011;42(1):e464-e540.
- Ricotta JJ, et al. J Vasc Surg. 2011;54(3):e1-e31.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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