Carotid Endarterectomies

Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is surgery to treat carotid artery disease. The carotid arteries are the main blood vessels that carry oxygen and blood to the brain. In carotid artery disease, these arteries become narrowed. This reduces blood flow to the brain and could cause a stroke.

Narrowing of the carotid arteries is most often caused by atherosclerosis. This is a buildup of plaque in the inner lining of the artery. Plaque is made up of fatty substances, cholesterol, cellular waste products, calcium, and fibrin. Atherosclerosis is also called "hardening of the arteries." It can affect arteries throughout the body. Carotid artery disease is similar to coronary artery disease. In coronary artery disease, blockages form in the arteries of the heart and may cause a heart attack. In the brain, it can lead to stroke.

You may not have symptoms if you have carotid artery disease. Plaque buildup may not be blocking enough blood flow to cause symptoms. An artery that is blocked only halfway or less often does not cause any symptoms. Carotid endarterectomy requires a stay in hospital. Procedures may vary based on your condition and your healthcare provider's practices.

Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is surgery to treat carotid artery disease. The carotid arteries are the main blood vessels that carry oxygen and blood to the brain. In carotid artery disease, these arteries become narrowed. This reduces blood flow to the brain and could cause a stroke.

In carotid endarterectomy, you receive a local or general anesthetic. Your surgeon makes an incision along the front of your neck, opens your carotid artery and removes the plaques that are clogging your artery. Then, your surgeon repairs the artery with stitches or a patch made with a vein or artificial material (patch graft).