A minimally invasive procedure, carotid artery angioplasty involves the removal of plaque from a blocked carotid artery. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into the artery through the groin area and moved to the carotid artery. An instrument with a balloon on one end is then moved to the blocked area and inflated multiple times to push the plaque to the sides of the arterial wall. In some procedures, a mesh stent is placed to maintain the flow of blood.
Also Known As:
- Carotid balloon angioplasty
- Balloon angioplasty
- Carotid artery surgery
- Carotid percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA)
Conditions Treated with Carotid Artery Angioplasty:
Carotid artery angioplasty is utilized in order to treat atherosclerosis and to restore blood flow through the carotid artery.
Non-surgical alternatives to carotid artery angioplasty include cholesterol-reducing medication, blood thinners and regular exercise. Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical alternative to the procedure.
Anesthesia with Carotid Artery Angioplasty:
Carotid artery angioplasty is performed with local anesthesia and sedation.
Potential Complications from Carotid Artery Angioplasty:
Possible risks following carotid artery angioplasty include bleeding, infection, seizures and a negative reaction to the anesthesia. It is also possible to experience temporary paralysis, heart attack and brain hemorrhage. In some cases, the artery blockage returns.
Prognosis after Carotid Artery Angioplasty:
The prognosis for a positive end result following carotid artery angioplasty is very good.
Recovery from Carotid Artery Angioplasty:
The total recovery time following carotid artery angioplasty is one to two weeks.
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