How safe is the surgery for Carotid Artery blockage?
Surgery for the blocked carotid artery is very safe. The risk is less than 1%. Since blockage of the carotid (neck) arteries is one of the commonest causes of stroke, this procedure (Carotid Endarterectomy) is a common routine procedure, especially in the United States and Europe. The surgery itself takes about an hour or so, and the patient usually goes home either the following day or two days after surgery. How do I find out if I have a blockage in my Carotid Artery? The initial step is to see your physician, who will examine you. If there is a bruit (swishing sound) in your Carotid Artery in the neck, he will refer you to a cardiovascular specialist, who will perform the necessary tests to find out for sure if you indeed have a blockage in your Carotid Artery or not. If you yourself hear a “swishing” sound in your neck, consult a physician right away. Prevention is the best form of treatment.
