Top 5 Things to Expect During Carotid Artery Surgery
Carotid artery surgery is a critical procedure aimed at preventing strokes by removing blockages in the carotid arteries. Understanding what to expect during this surgery can ease anxiety and prepare patients for a smoother experience. Here are the top five things you should know about how carotid artery surgery is done.
Preoperative Preparation and Anesthesia
Before the surgery begins, patients undergo thorough preparation including medical evaluations, blood tests, and imaging studies like ultrasound or angiography to assess the carotid arteries. On the day of surgery, anesthesia is administered—typically general anesthesia—to ensure that the patient remains unconscious and pain-free throughout the operation.
Incision and Exposure of Carotid Artery
The surgeon makes an incision on the side of your neck to access the affected carotid artery. This step requires precision to avoid damage to nearby nerves and structures while providing clear visibility of the artery for safe intervention.
Removal of Plaque (Endarterectomy)
The primary goal of carotid artery surgery is to remove plaque buildup that narrows or blocks blood flow, which can lead to stroke. The surgeon carefully opens the artery and removes this fatty deposit in a process called endarterectomy, restoring proper blood circulation.
Repairing and Closing the Artery
After plaque removal, surgeons repair the artery either by sewing it closed directly or using a patch made from synthetic material or vein tissue to widen it further. This step ensures that blood flows smoothly through a stable arterial passage.
Postoperative Care and Monitoring
Once surgery concludes, patients are closely monitored in recovery units for any signs of complications such as bleeding or nerve injury. Blood pressure management and medications may be prescribed to support healing and prevent future blockages.
Carotid artery surgery is a vital intervention with life-saving potential when performed timely and correctly. Knowing these key steps helps demystify what happens during your procedure so you can approach it with greater confidence.
This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.
