Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes plaque from the carotid arteries to reduce stroke risk. At Atrium Vascular Associates, board-certified vascular and endovascular surgeon Dr. Sydney Wong performs this operation with careful, individualized attention.
Reduce Stroke Risk by Restoring
Blood Flow
Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat significant narrowing of the carotid arteries, the major blood vessels supplying the brain. During surgery, plaque buildup is carefully removed from the artery wall to restore healthy blood flow. By improving circulation to the brain, this procedure helps lower the risk of stroke in patients with carotid artery disease. Treatment is recommended after careful evaluation of symptoms, imaging, and risk factors.
Why Do You Need a Carotid Endarterectomy?
Carotid endarterectomy is recommended to treat significant narrowing or blockage of the carotid arteries caused by plaque buildup. This condition, known as carotid artery disease, can reduce blood flow to the brain and significantly increase your risk of stroke. When imaging and clinical evaluation indicate severe narrowing, surgery may be recommended to remove plaque, restore circulation, and reduce stroke risk. You may need a carotid endarterectomy if:
- You have significant carotid artery narrowing on imaging
- You have experienced stroke-like symptoms or a transient ischemic attack
- You are at high risk of stroke due to plaque instability
- You have worsening blockage despite medical therapy
- You are an appropriate surgical candidate after specialist evaluation
Why Choose Dr. Sydney Wong?
Dr. Sydney Wong is a board-certified vascular and endovascular surgeon with extensive experience treating carotid artery disease. He personally evaluates whether carotid endarterectomy is right for you, carefully balancing surgical benefit with individual risk. Dr. Wong performs this procedure using meticulous techniques and evidence-based decision-making, and takes the time to explain your condition, treatment options, and expected outcomes so you feel informed and confident throughout your care.
What to Expect During Carotid Endarterectomy?
During carotid endarterectomy, Dr. Wong makes a small incision along the side of your neck to access the affected carotid artery. Blood flow to your brain is carefully monitored and protected throughout surgery. The artery is opened, plaque is gently removed, and the vessel is repaired to restore smooth blood flow. You are typically under anesthesia, and the surgery usually takes a few hours. Afterward, you will be closely monitored as you begin recovery.
Benefits of Carotid Endarterectomy
Carotid endarterectomy is a well-established procedure with clear benefits for appropriately selected patients. When recommended after evaluation, it offers the following advantages:
- Reduced risk of future stroke
- Improved blood flow to the brain
- Removal of unstable or high-risk plaque
- Long-term durability compared to medical therapy alone
- Proven effectiveness in symptomatic and severe disease
Carotid Endarterectomy FAQs
Is Carotid Endarterectomy Always Necessary if I Have Narrowing?
Not always. Many patients with mild or moderate carotid narrowing can be managed with medication and risk factor control alone. Surgery is typically recommended only when narrowing is severe or when you have symptoms that significantly increase stroke risk.
What Are the Risks of Carotid Endarterectomy?
Like any surgery, carotid endarterectomy carries risks, including stroke, bleeding, infection, or nerve irritation. Dr. Wong discusses these risks with you in detail and explains how they compare to the risk of not having surgery. Careful patient selection and close monitoring are key to minimizing these risks.
How Long is the Recovery After Surgery?
Most patients spend one night in the hospital for observation and return home the next day. You may experience mild neck soreness or fatigue, which typically improves over one to two weeks. Dr. Wong provides clear recovery instructions and remains involved in your care.
Schedule Your Consultation
Atrium Vascular Associates is dedicated to providing thoughtful, individualized vascular care. Located in Richmond Hill, our clinic serves patients throughout the Greater Toronto Area and offers expert evaluation and treatment for carotid artery disease. If you have concerns about stroke risk or carotid narrowing, schedule a consultation with Dr. Wong today.
