What is Carotid artery disease?

The carotid arteries are two major blood vessels, one on each side of the neck, that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the brain and eyes. These arteries play a critical role in keeping the brain healthy and functioning properly.

Carotid artery disease occurs when these arteries become narrowed or blocked, usually due to a buildup of fatty deposits and cholesterol, known as plaque. This condition, also called carotid artery stenosis, can reduce or even stop blood flow to the brain.

When the brain doesn’t get enough oxygenated blood, it can’t work as it should. You might feel sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body, or even experience vision loss. In severe cases, it can lead to a stroke, a medical emergency that can cause permanent brain damage or even death.

Carotid artery disease is responsible for up to one-third of all strokes.

At Apex Hospitals, Jaipur, our vascular specialists work to detect and treat carotid artery disease early, helping patients reduce stroke risk and live healthier lives.

Carotid Artery Disease Treatment Options

1. Medical Management

In early stages, lifestyle changes and medications (blood thinners, statins, blood pressure control) may help slow disease progression.

2. Carotid Endarterectomy

Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a widely used surgical treatment for individuals with carotid artery disease, especially those who have experienced transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or mild strokes due to a buildup of plaque in the neck arteries.

During this procedure, you'll be placed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the neck at the site of the blockage. The affected carotid artery is gently exposed, and the plaque and damaged sections are carefully removed to clear the pathway for blood flow. Afterwards, the artery is stitched closed, allowing smoother, unobstructed circulation to the brain.

The decision to undergo CEA depends on several factors, including your age, the severity of the blockage, and whether you've had symptoms like a stroke or TIA. For many patients, this surgery offers a significantly reduced risk of future strokes and an improved quality of life.

At Apex Hospitals, our vascular surgery team uses advanced techniques and years of expertise to ensure safe, effective outcomes for patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy.

3. Carotid Artery Stenting

Carotid artery stenting (CAS) is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery for treating narrowed carotid arteries. Unlike carotid endarterectomy, which requires a neck incision, CAS is performed through a small puncture, usually in the groin, in a Cath Lab.

During the procedure, a thin, flexible catheter is guided through the blood vessels to reach the narrowed section of the carotid artery. Once positioned, a tiny balloon at the tip of the catheter is briefly inflated to widen the artery. A stent, a small, mesh-like tube, is then placed at the site to help keep the artery open and maintain healthy blood flow to the brain.

At Apex Hospitals, Jaipur, our team uses the latest vascular intervention techniques, including CAS, to provide personalized, advanced care based on each patient's needs.

If you or a loved one is at risk of stroke or has been diagnosed with carotid artery disease, trust Apex Hospitals Jaipur for expert care and advanced treatment.