Carotid artery surgery is surgery to restore blood flow to the brain. It is a treatment for carotid artery disease and can help prevent a stroke. Carotid artery surgery involves removing plaque buildup from the carotid arteries.
Carotid artery disease, also called carotid artery stenosis, is a narrowing of the carotid arteries. Ther are two carotid arteries, one on each side of the neck. They are major arteries that carry blood from the heart tothe brain. Carotid artery disease is caused by atherosclerosis, commonly called hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is a buildup of plaque. Plaque is a sticky, waxy deposit of fats, cholesterol, calcium, and fibrous material. This causes reduction in the blood flow to the brain or can sometime throw a clot into the brain. This leads to damage to the nerve cells of the brain resulting in stroke.
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- Slurring of speech
- Deviation of mouth
- Weakness of upper or lower limbs
- Sudden loss of vision which recovers immediately
- Rarely giddiness.
In early stages carotid blocks can be managed with good medical treatment. Medical treatment includes blood thinners, anticholesterol medications, Good control of diabetes, hypertension and strict abstinence from tobacco.
In early stages carotid blocks can be managed with good medical treatment. Medical treatment includes blood thinners, anticholesterol medications, Good control of diabetes, hypertension and strict abstinence from tobacco.
Carotid endarterectomy involves opening the carotid arteries in the neck and removing the inner lining that is diseased or damaged by plaque. A patch graft may be placed to help widen the artery and improve the blood flow.
Carotid artery angioplasty and stenting is an option for patients who have a high risk of complications for carotid endarterectomy.