Carotid Artery Disease

Carotid Endarterectomy

In this procedure, the patient receives either a local or general anesthesia. An incision is made along the front of the neck, the carotid artery is opened, and the atherosclerosis (waxy plaque buildup) is removed. The artery is repaired with either sutures or a graft. Most patients are discharged from the hospital within 48 hours after the operation.

Carotid surgery has improved significantly during the last 20 years. The risks are now very low, even in patients more than 80 years old. Studies have shown lasting benefits from surgery in helping prevent strokes.

Mayo Clinic Publications

See a list of publications by Mayo Clinic doctors on carotid endarterectomy on PubMed, a service of the National Library of Medicine.