Carotid Artery Surgery, also known as carotid endarterectomy, is a procedure performed to remove plaque buildup from the carotid arteries—major blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain. When these arteries become narrowed or blocked due to atherosclerosis, it increases the risk of stroke. This surgery is typically recommended for patients with significant narrowing, especially if they have had symptoms such as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or minor strokes.
The goal of carotid artery surgery is to prevent future strokes by restoring proper blood flow to the brain. The procedure involves carefully removing the plaque from the artery wall, thus reducing the risk of clots and improving circulation. It is performed under general or local anesthesia and usually requires a short hospital stay. With timely intervention and proper postoperative care, most patients recover well and experience a significant reduction in stroke risk.