Carotid Artery Disease

The carotid arteries run through the neck and supply blood to the brain. When the walls of the carotid arteries are narrowed by fatty deposits known as plaque, small clots in the blood can cut off blood supply to the brain and cause a stroke. A surgical procedure known as a carotid endarterectomy clears arteries of plaque. If you have had a minor stroke or symptoms that suggest you are at high risk for a stroke, and there is evidence of severe blockage in your carotid arteries, your health care provider may suggest you consider carotid endarterectomy as a preventive procedure.

If you are considering this surgery, you should know:

• Certain tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis of carotid artery disease. With angiography, a dye is injected into the artery, followed by an x-ray to check for blockage. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasonic scans also can test for blockage without entering the arteries.
• Carotid endarterectomy carries some risks. There can be complications if parts of the plaque break away during the procedure and block an artery to the brain or if artery incisions leak.
• Complication rates vary greatly by hospital and surgeon. Ask if your hospital monitors its complication rates for carotid endarterectomy and ask your surgeon how many times he or she has performed the procedure. Evidence shows that surgeons who have performed more procedures have higher success rates.

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