Endarterectomy is surgery to remove plaque buildup in your carotid or peripheral arteries to restore blood flow to your brain or leg. It lowers the risk of stroke or complications of peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
UPMC vascular surgeons use the latest minimally invasive techniques to provide expert care for blockages in blood vessels in the neck, leg, arms, and belly.
There are a few types of endarterectomies based on where you have a blockage:
Your surgeon may perform a minimally invasive endarterectomy or a traditional open endarterectomy.
During a minimally invasive endarterectomy, your vascular surgeon will thread a balloon catheter through a small incision in your groin or wrist and guide it to the site of the blockage. After the catheter is in place, your doctor will inflate the balloon to open your artery and improve blood flow. If necessary, your doctor will use a special device to prevent plaque from moving through your arteries and blocking blood vessels in your brain.
In a traditional procedure, you will receive a sedative medication in your IV before the procedure to help you relax. Your surgeon will make an incision near the site of your blockage to reach the artery and remove the plaque. The artery is then repaired, and the incision is closed.
Incisions for carotid endarterectomy procedures are typically made in the neck. However, if your surgeon performs a minimally invasive procedure using a catheter, your incision may be in your groin or wrist.
Smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a family history of cardiac conditions can increase your risk of developing plaque in your arteries.
Plaque in your arteries can cause the inside to become narrow, leading to blockages and damage. When the inside lining of your arteries becomes narrow due to damage, it can affect blood flow in your:
If you have blockages in your arteries, your doctor may recommend an endarterectomy to restore blood flow.
Although endarterectomy is usually performed through a small incision, it is a complex procedure that can reduce the risk of a life-threatening stroke and other serious complications.
You may be a candidate for endarterectomy surgery if:
As with any surgery, endarterectomy has risks. Many of the risks relate to your age, current health status, and the severity of your blockage.
Complications may include:
Your doctor will work with you to decide if endarterectomy is right for you.
During your first visit, your doctor will go over your medical history and perform a physical exam.
You may also have a series of tests, including:
On the day of your procedure, be sure to bring your photo ID and health insurance card(s). Leave valuables such as cash and jewelry at home.
You will need to stay in the hospital for several days after your procedure. You should bring toiletries, a robe, slippers, a cell phone and charger, medications, and a change of clothes. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital after you are discharged.
Endarterectomy surgery can take a few hours based on the location and severity of the blockage.
You'll receive general anesthesia, so you won't be awake during surgery.
During a traditional open endarterectomy, your surgeon will:
During a minimally invasive endarterectomy, your surgeon will:
After your endarterectomy, you'll spend a few nights in the hospital. Your care team will keep a close eye on you to make sure you don't have any complications from the surgery.
You will be sore around the surgery site.
Your doctor will prescribe medications to ease the pain and prevent infection. He or she will also tell you how to best care for your incision and prevent future plaque buildup in your arteries.
You should be able to return to your normal routine 3-4 weeks after your endarterectomy surgery.
You should call your doctor if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, including:
If any of these symptoms are severe, you should dial 911 immediately.
For most patients, endarterectomy surgery restores blood flow, improves symptoms, and helps reduce stroke risk.
With lifestyle changes, medication, and follow-up care, most patients are able to manage their stroke risk and live active, fulfilling lives. If you have questions about your life expectancy after your carotid endarterectomy, talk to your doctor.
The success rate of your endarterectomy depends on your age, your overall health, and the severity of the blockage. Your doctor will discuss the expected success rate of the procedure with you.
When you choose UPMC for your endarterectomy, you will receive expert care from some of the region's most experienced vascular surgeons. We provide expert care using either minimally invasive or traditional open techniques, depending on your specific condition. If endarterectomy isn’t the best option for you, we'll recommend other treatments that better suit your needs.
Last reviewed by a UPMC medical professional on 2024-10-01.
