Carotid Artery Disease (CAD) and Stroke Prevention

Overview

Carotid artery disease is estimated to be the cause of stroke in up to one fourth of all stroke cases. The carotid arteries feed oxygen-rich blood to the brain. In patients with carotid artery disease, plaque builds up in the carotid arteries. A stroke occurs when plaque fragments travel to the brain. Treatment options for carotid artery disease depend upon the severity of the patient’s condition and symptoms. Moderate disease may be managed with medications and lifestyle changes and with annual or semi-annual imaging tests. More severe blockages, or blockages associated with symptoms, may require surgery.

The Elliot vascular surgeons offer open surgery and minimally invasive treatment techniques to prevent stroke, including:

• Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA): This open surgical procedure removes plaque from inside the carotid artery to restore normal blood flow to the brain.
• TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR): TCAR is an innovative technology developed to treat patients with carotid artery disease. This is a minimally invasive procedure during which a stent is placed in the carotid artery to stabilize plaque and prevent strokes.