- Treatments
- Blood Vessels
Carotid Endarterectomy
The procedure is usually recommended for individuals with:
- Severe carotid artery stenosis (narrowing): Caused by the accumulation of fatty deposits (atherosclerosis)
- Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA): To prevent further strokes
- Asymptomatic carotid stenosis: When the narrowing poses a high risk of causing a stroke in the future
Why Is Carotid Endarterectomy Performed?
How Is the Procedure Done?
Preparation
The patient is given general or local anaesthesia to ensure comfort during the surgery.
Accessing the Artery
The surgeon makes an incision on the side of the neck to expose the affected carotid artery.
Removing the Plaque
The artery is opened, and the plaque causing the narrowing is carefully removed.
Repairing the Artery
The artery is then stitched back together or patched using a graft to widen it.
Closing the Incision
The incision in the neck is closed, completing the surgery.
What Are the Benefits?
- Significantly lowers the risk of stroke, especially for patients with severe artery narrowing
- Improves blood flow to the brain, enhancing overall brain function and health
Risks and Complications
While carotid endarterectomy is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Stroke during or after surgery
- Heart attack
- Bleeding or infection at the surgical site
- Nerve damage affecting facial or throat muscles
Recovery and Aftercare
- Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 days.
- Recovery Time: Full recovery typically takes about 2–4 weeks.
- Lifestyle Changes: To prevent further artery narrowing, patients are advised to adopt a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and quit smoking.
- Follow-Up: Regular check-ups and imaging tests are necessary to monitor the treated artery.
Who Should Consider This Procedure?
- Significant narrowing of the carotid artery (usually 70% or more)
- Symptoms like TIAs or minor strokes
- Low risk of complications from surgery based on their overall health
Conclusion
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