Carotid Artery Surgery (Carotid Endarterectomy)
Carotid artery surgery, also known as carotid endarterectomy, is a procedure used to treat significant narrowing of the carotid arteries caused by plaque buildup. These arteries supply blood to the brain, and severe narrowing can increase the risk of a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. Carotid endarterectomy removes plaque from the artery to improve blood flow and help reduce the risk of future stroke.
Understanding Carotid Endarterectomy
During carotid endarterectomy, the surgeon makes an incision in the neck, accesses the affected carotid artery, and carefully removes the accumulated plaque. The artery is then closed, sometimes with a patch to help maintain its width. The procedure may be performed under general or local anaesthesia depending on the patient's condition and surgical assessment.
Who May Need Carotid Artery Surgery?
The procedure may be recommended for selected patients with significant carotid artery stenosis, particularly those who have experienced symptoms such as a TIA or stroke. Carotid ultrasound, CT angiography, and other vascular imaging tests can help determine the severity of narrowing and guide treatment decisions.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery varies between individuals. Patients are generally monitored after surgery and advised to gradually return to normal activities. Long-term care may include prescribed medicines, cholesterol management, blood-pressure control, diabetes management, smoking cessation, and healthy lifestyle changes.
Risks and Considerations
Potential complications include stroke, bleeding, infection, nerve injury, and anaesthesia-related complications. Your specialist will assess your symptoms, scan results, overall health, and surgical risk before recommending treatment.