Carotid Endarterectomy
Advanced surgical treatment to prevent stroke
Carotid Endarterectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove plaque buildup from the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain. This procedure helps restore normal blood flow and significantly reduces the risk of stroke.
Narrowing of carotid arteries (carotid stenosis) occurs due to atherosclerosis and can lead to serious complications like transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke if not treated in time.
WHO NEEDS THIS PROCEDURE?
- - Patients with significant carotid artery blockage (usually >50–70%)
- - History of stroke or mini-stroke (TIA)
- - Patients with symptoms like sudden weakness or speech difficulty
- - High-risk patients with plaque buildup in neck arteries
RISK FACTORS
- - Smoking or tobacco use
- - High blood pressure
- - Diabetes
- - High cholesterol
- - Obesity & sedentary lifestyle
- - Age above 55 years
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
- - Sudden numbness or weakness (face, arm, or leg)
- - Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- - Sudden loss of vision in one eye
- - Dizziness or loss of balance
- - Transient Ischemic Attack (mini-stroke)
HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?
- - Carotid Doppler Ultrasound
- - CT Angiography (CTA)
- - MR Angiography (MRA)
- - Digital Angiography
ABOUT THE PROCEDURE
Carotid Endarterectomy involves making a small incision in the neck to access the blocked carotid artery. The surgeon carefully removes the plaque buildup and restores smooth blood flow to the brain.
- - Performed under local or general anesthesia
- - Takes approximately 1–2 hours
- - Requires short hospital stay
BENEFITS
- - Significantly reduces stroke risk
- - Improves blood flow to the brain
- - Long-term protection against artery blockage
ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT
- - Carotid Artery Stenting (minimally invasive)
- - Medical management with medications
RECOVERY
- - Hospital stay: 1–2 days
- - Resume normal activities within 1–2 weeks
- - Regular follow-up required
Early detection and timely treatment can prevent life-threatening strokes.