Carotid Endarterectomy

Xenophon P. Xenophontos, MD

Vascular Surgeon & Endovascular Surgeon located in Garden City, NY

Treating carotid artery disease requires an experienced vascular surgeon like Xenophon P. Xenophontos, MD, FACS, FSVS. At his vascular surgery practice in Garden City, New York, Dr. Xenophontos offers comprehensive care and surgeries, including carotid endarterectomy, to reduce your risk for serious health complications, including stroke. Find out if you’re a candidate for carotid endarterectomy today by scheduling a diagnostic evaluation with Dr. Xenophontos by phone or with the online booking feature.

516-227-2721

Carotid Endarterectomy Q & A

What is a carotid endarterectomy?

Blockages in the carotid artery occur when fatty deposits build up enough to interfere with healthy blood flow, a condition known as carotid artery disease. The carotid arteries are on each side of your neck and are responsible for supplying your brain, face, and neck with blood and oxygen.

Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure that Dr. Xenophontos offers to remove blockages and restore the normal flow of blood to prevent a stroke. You may need this surgery if diagnostic testing confirms you have an existing blockage in your arteries severe enough to increase the likelihood you will have a stroke.

When do I need a carotid endarterectomy?

In the earliest stages, you may not have any warning signs you have carotid artery disease. However, as the disease progresses, you may experience symptoms like vision changes, slurred speech, and weakness or numbness in the arms or legs.

You should request an evaluation with Dr. Xenophontos immediately if you experience any of these issues. You may also need a preventive screening for carotid artery disease if you have a family history of the condition or other risk factors for carotid artery blockages, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

Dr. Xenophontos evaluates your carotid artery health through a physical exam with a stethoscope. He may request imaging tests to better evaluate the severity of your disease and uses technologies like:

Ultrasound
CT angiography
MR angiography

Based on your risk factors for stroke and your overall health, Dr. Xenophontos tailors your treatment plan, which may involve a carotid endarterectomy.

What’s involved in a carotid endarterectomy?

During a carotid endarterectomy, Dr. Xenophontos makes an incision over the affected artery and uses specialized surgical tools to clear the build-up of fatty deposits. He may also need to insert a small, flexible tube that temporarily allows blood to flow around the surgical site as he clears the plaque.

Once the surgery is complete, Dr. Xenophontos closes the incision with stitches. You can expect to need several days of recovery time before you can return to your usual activities. Dr. Xenophontos may prescribe a medication to prevent blood clots after your procedure and can recommend pain relievers to keep you comfortable as you heal.

It’s normal to have some neck pain, and you may find it difficult to swallow in the days after your surgery. You should report any persistent pain or signs of infection to Dr. Xenophontos as soon as possible.

To find out more about the benefits of carotid endarterectomy, schedule a consultation with Xenophon P. Xenophontos, MD, FACS, FSVS, today using the online booking feature or by calling the office.