Key Points about Carotid Artery Surgery
- Plaque naturally builds up over time in the arteries which can reduce or block blood flow. Carotid artery surgery helps improve blood flow.
- You will undergo carotid endarterectomy in the hospital under sedation.
- You can expect to remain in recovery for a few hours while the effects of anesthesia and sedation wear off.
Overview
Carotid artery surgery – or carotid endarterectomy – is a procedure that removes plaque (buildup of cholesterol, fats and other substances) from the carotid artery. There are two carotid arteries – one on either side of the neck – and they are major blood vessels that supply blood to the brain, neck and face. The procedure helps improve blood flow.
Candidates for carotid artery surgery
If you have carotid arterial disease, your cardiologist may recommend you undergo carotid artery surgery to help open up your blocked carotid artery. There are several conditions associated with carotid artery disease, including:
- Amaurosis fugax
- Carotid artery atherosclerosis
- Carotid artery aneurysm
- Carotid artery embolism
- Carotid artery stenosis
- Carotid artery vasculitis
- Carotid hypersensitivity syndrome
- Stroke
- Temporal arteritis
Preparing for carotid artery surgery
You will undergo carotid endarterectomy in the hospital under sedation. This will help you relax during the procedure. You will receive local anesthesia, which numbs the area where your surgeon makes an incision for the procedure. Depending on your condition, you may be under general anesthesia, meaning that you’re fully asleep.
Expectations during carotid artery surgery
Expectations during carotid artery surgery
Your surgeon begins by making a small incision in the front of your neck to access your carotid artery. The surgeon will turn the artery inside out, remove the plaque and then return the carotid artery to its usual position. Your surgeon closes the incision with a bandage.
Recovery from carotid artery surgery
You can expect to remain in recovery for a few hours while the effects of anesthesia and sedation wear off. Your team monitors you closely during the recovery period. Many patients return home the same day as the surgery. Some patients need to spend one night in the hospital. Your care team will provide you with specific aftercare instructions. Most people can resume their normal activities within a week or so.