Health A-Z

Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat carotid artery disease, which involves the narrowing or blockage of the carotid arteries in the neck due to a buildup of plaque. Here's how it relates to symptoms, treatment plans, and diagnosis testing.

1. Transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke: Carotid artery disease increases the risk of TIAs or strokes, which may cause symptoms such as:
   • Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, typically on one side of the body
   • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
   • Vision changes, such as blurred vision or loss of vision in one eye
   • Sudden, severe headache

1. Pre-operative evaluation: Patients undergo a thorough pre-operative evaluation to assess the severity of carotid artery disease, overall health, and risk factors for complications.
2. Surgical procedure: During carotid endarterectomy, the surgeon makes an incision in the neck, opens the carotid artery, and removes the plaque buildup to restore normal blood flow. In some cases, a patch may be used to reinforce the artery wall and reduce the risk of narrowing (restenosis) after surgery.
3. Post-operative care: After surgery, patients are monitored closely in the hospital for complications such as bleeding, infection, or stroke. Blood pressure, heart rate, and neurological function are monitored to ensure proper healing and recovery.

1. Medical history and physical examination: A detailed history of symptoms, medical conditions, and risk factors for cardiovascular disease is obtained, followed by a physical examination to assess neurological function, blood pressure, and signs of carotid artery disease.
2. Imaging tests: Imaging studies such as carotid ultrasound, CT angiography, or magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) are used to visualize the carotid arteries and assess the extent of stenosis (narrowing) or blockage.
3. Cerebral angiography: In some cases, cerebral angiography may be performed to provide detailed images of the carotid arteries and identify areas of blockage or narrowing.