GENERAL SURGERY-VASCULAR SURGERY
A Carotid Endarterectomy is a surgical procedure to treat carotid artery disease and remove buildup of waxy, fatty plaque in carotid arteries
What is it?
In a Carotid Endarterectomy, plaque buildup is surgically removed to improve blood flow in the carotid arteries to reduce the risk of stroke. The procedure is recommended for those that have 60 percent blockage in the arteries.
How to prepare?
To prepare for this procedure, the patient will have a preoperative assessment, which will include the surgeon taking a medical history of the patient and performing diagnostic medical tests that are necessary. The surgeon will advise the patient to stop smoking and watch their weight prior to surgery.
What happens during the process?
The procedure will be carried out under general anesthesia or local anesthesia depending on the patient’s preferences. The procedure takes about 1 to 2 hours to complete. The surgeon and his medical team will discuss exactly how the procedure is performed and they will give specific instructions prior to the surgery.
Risks and Complications
The possible risks of this procedure include:
* Stroke (2%)
* Death (<1%)
* Blood clot blockage
* Ruptured plaque
* Pain or numbness at wound site
* Decreased blood flow
* Bleeding at wound site
* Wound infection
* Nerve damage
* Re-narrowing of carotid artery
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