Carotid Artery Disease

Carotid artery disease is a disease in which carotid stenosis is caused by a build-up of plaque inside the artery wall that reduces blood flow to the brain. Carotid stenosis is a narrowing of the carotid arteries. The two major carotid arteries, one on each side of the neck, that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the brain. It is a serious risk factor for stroke and can lead to brain damage.

Carotid stenosis

Atherosclerotic plaque narrows the artery diameter and reducing blood flow.


Symptoms

Diagnosis

Color Doppler ultrasound scan of the carotid arteries

Surgery

Surgical treatment is generally recommended for patients who have suffered one or more TIAs or strokes. The goal of surgery is to prevent stroke by reducing or removing the plaque build-up and expand the artery lumen to allow more blood flow to the brain.

Carotid endarterectomy

Carotid angioplasty and stenting

Carotid artery bypass