Carotid Endarterectomy
Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a surgical procedure performed to remove plaque buildup from the inner lining of the carotid arteries. The carotid arteries are the main blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain. Plaque buildup, a condition known as carotid artery disease, narrows the arteries and can increase the risk of stroke by reducing blood flow or causing clots that may travel to the brain.
Benefits
Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) offers several important benefits, especially for patients at high risk of stroke due to carotid artery disease. Here are the primary advantages:
- Significant Stroke Risk Reduction: CEA removes plaque buildup in the carotid artery, restoring blood flow and dramatically lowering the risk of stroke for patients with moderate to severe stenosis (narrowing of the artery).
- Symptom Relief: In patients experiencing symptoms like transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or minor strokes, CEA can help prevent further episodes, providing long-term symptom relief.
- Long-Lasting Results: CEA is considered one of the most effective treatments for symptomatic carotid stenosis, with benefits lasting many years and often requiring little follow-up intervention.
- Improved Blood Flow to the Brain: By clearing the artery of plaque, CEA helps maintain adequate blood supply to the brain, which supports cognitive and neurological health.
- Prevention of Complications: Removing plaque buildup helps avoid complications related to severe carotid artery disease, such as complete blockage of the artery, which could lead to severe stroke or death.
- Better Outcomes in High-Risk Patients: In patients with symptoms and significant stenosis, studies have shown that CEA greatly improves survival rates and reduces the likelihood of severe disability from stroke.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: By reducing stroke risk, CEA can improve patients' confidence in their health and overall quality of life, especially for those who have previously experienced TIAs or other related symptoms.
- Reduced Need for Intensive Monitoring: For many patients, CEA lessens the need for frequent monitoring and invasive treatments, as it addresses the root cause of the artery narrowing.
