Endarterectomy

Endarterectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove the innermost lining of an artery when it has become thickened or damaged by plaque deposits. This procedure is most commonly performed on the carotid artery in the neck to reduce the risk of stroke, but it can also be performed on other arteries.

Procedure

The endarterectomy procedure begins with an incision in the skin over the affected artery. The surgeon then opens the artery and removes the plaque-filled inner lining. Once the artery is cleaned, it is stitched back together and the skin incision is closed. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, but can also be done under local anesthesia with sedation.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgeries, endarterectomy carries some risks. These include stroke, heart attack, blood clots, infection, and nerve damage. The risk of complications is higher in people with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, and in those who smoke.

Recovery

Recovery from endarterectomy varies depending on the individual and the specific artery that was treated. Most people can expect to spend one to two days in the hospital after the procedure. Full recovery typically takes a few weeks.

Prevention

Endarterectomy is a treatment for arterial disease, not a cure. To prevent the recurrence of plaque buildup, it's important to manage risk factors for atherosclerosis, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking.

See Also

• Carotid endarterectomy
• Stroke
• Atherosclerosis

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Endarterectomy

• Diagram of a carotid endarterectomy procedure
  Diagram of a carotid endarterectomy procedure
• Carotid artery plaque
  Carotid artery plaque