Patient Health InfoCarotid Endarterectomy
Carotid artery disease results from the aging process, causing a narrowing of the arteries which carry blood to the brain. When testing shows significant blockages or ulceration of plaques in the carotid artery, surgery may be recommended to reduce the chance of stroke. Carotid endarterectomy is the most common procedure for carotid artery blockages.
Preparation
After you and your physician have discussed the procedure, you will be asked to sign a consent form. Please read it carefully and ask any questions you have.
You may be admitted to the hospital the night before your procedure, but your physician may also choose to admit you two or three hours before your procedure. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the procedure.
An intravenous needle will be placed in your arm. Blood may be drawn for laboratory tests, a chest x-ray and electrocardiogram will be taken and you will receive medication to help you relax.
The Procedure
The procedure requires general anesthesia and several hours in the operating room.
During the procedure, the artery will be opened and the plaque carefully lifted off the artery's inner wall. Blood flow may be rerouted using a shunt on both sides of the blockage. After the plaque has been removed, the artery will be stitched closed.
Following the Procedure
You will remain in a telemetry unit of the hospital for three or four days. As you prepare to return home, you will be encouraged to reduce your risk factors to prevent further carotid artery problems. Regular follow-up appointments with your physician are important for detecting early warning signals of the disease.