Carotid Artery Disease Treatments

Narrowing of the carotid artery is most commonly caused by gradual cholesterol buildup called atherosclerosis.  Other potential causes include carotid artery dissection, which is a tearing of the blood vessel wall that, if severe enough, can result in stroke. 

Doctors called interventional cardiologists use carotid angioplasty and stenting to treat the narrowing of the carotid arteries (stenosis). During this procedure, your care team places a thin tube (catheter) into a blood vessel in your groin. They use X-ray guidance to thread this tube to the carotid artery.

Once the tube is in position, your doctor may expand a balloon across the narrowed area to open it up. They may also insert a small metal tube, called a stent, to hold the narrowed artery open.

At Emory Heart & Vascular, we offer angioplasty and stenting when surgery isn’t an option.

Carotid endarterectomy is the most common method of treating carotid artery disease. Many studies have shown that carotid endarterectomy is the best way to restore blood flow through the carotid artery and prevent stroke.

During a carotid endarterectomy, a doctor called a vascular surgeon makes an incision in the artery at the site of the narrowing. They use special tools to remove plaque buildup and restore your blood vessel to normal size.

Since doctors work on a very small area during a carotid endarterectomy, they use a very small incision and local anesthesia. This means they numb the affected area to reduce pain.

You can expect a quick recovery from carotid endarterectomy surgery. Most people who undergo a carotid endarterectomy don’t need further treatment. Your doctor may recommend regular check-ups and imaging tests after your procedure.

When you have a heart condition, you want the most effective treatment with the least risk.

Over the years Emory Healthcare physicians and researchers have revolutionized the field of interventional cardiology.

When it comes to the heart, expertise matters most. Our cardiac catheterization laboratories are staffed by board-certified physicians, experienced nurses and specially trained technologists who provide patients with high-quality care and a full range of effective treatments for cardiac and vascular diseases.

Surgery and procedures aren’t the only treatment options for people with carotid artery disease. Depending on how severe your condition is, your doctor may recommend:

• Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, healthy eating and increased exercise
• Medications to control blood pressure, lower cholesterol (statins) or thin your blood