Surgical Specialists of Ocala takes carotid artery disease seriously. We perform a long-lasting procedure called carotid artery endarterectomy to safely remove plaque from the arteries. One of the most common vascular surgeries, carotid artery endarterectomy involves making an incision on one side of the neck to reveal the blocked carotid artery. We then clamp the artery, make an incision into the blocked section, then remove the plaque. Sometimes a patch is used to widen the artery. We work on one side at a time so the artery on the other side of the neck can deliver blood to the brain. The average time for a carotid artery endarterectomy procedure is two hours, but can vary by patient.
Another option to treat carotid artery disease is carotid stenting. This procedure is designed for patients whose carotid artery has become completely clogged. Carotid stenting opens the clogged passages by inserting and inflating a tiny balloon to widen the artery. In some cases, a small metal coil is placed to help prop the artery open and decrease the chances of it narrowing again in the future.
Don’t wait until it’s too late! Contact us to schedule your carotid artery screening today.
