What is a carotid endarterectomy?
A carotid endarterectomy is a procedure in which a surgeon removes a blockage in a carotid artery. You have two carotid arteries, one on each side of the neck. These blood vessels bring blood to the brain and eyes. A blockage is usually a combination of cholesterol and calcium, called plaque, which has built up in your artery. The buildup of plaque can partially or fully block the flow of blood. When the carotid artery is narrowed or blocked, blood flow to your brain may be decreased. When the blood flow to your brain is decreased, you may become dizzy or faint, experience problems with eyesight in one eye, or have numbness or weakness in one arm and leg. When is it used? A carotid endarterectomy is usually done when the carotid artery is more than 70% blocked. If the artery is not treated, you are at risk of having a major stroke. When the blockage is less than 70%, some alternatives to this procedure include: • take aspirin or other medicines that thin your blood • choosing not to ha
