What does it mean to have carotid endarterectomy?

Clearing of Plaque: This is to surgically expose the carotid artery in the neck and to remove the plaque of the diseased artery. Arteries have 3 layers. Plaque / atherosclerosis develops in the inner two layers. The outer layer is the strength layer. These layers peel apart similar to the layers in an onion. Once cleared, the artery is closed using patch to prevent it from scarring down. The goal: prevent strokes.

Remove plaque: The surgical removal of plaque in the major artery in the neck (carotid) supplying blood to the brain to reduce the chance of stroke. Not everyone with carotid plaque needs surgery. In fact, the vast majority are treated medically. Discuss with your doctor.

CEA: It is a small surgical procedure to clean out the plaque that is narrowing the carotid artery.