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Carotid Artery Surgery Risks

Carotid artery surgery is indicated if one or both of the arteries supplying blood to the head and neck become blocked or partially blocked. If the brain is not getting enough oxygen due to a blockage, the risk of stroke is greatly increased. Surgical procedures to unblock the arteries do carry risks, however.

  1. Significance

    • Carotid artery surgery is for patients with 75 percent to 99 percent blockage. Patients with a complete blockage are at too great a risk for brain damage and stroke to undergo the surgery.

    Research

    • According to the Baylor College of Medicine, 1 percent to 3 percent of patients suffer a stroke while having carotid artery surgery.

    Examples

    • Swelling near the airway along with bruising and bleeding into the neck tissue are risks of carotid artery surgery. Bleeding on the brain, blood clots, heart attack and seizures also are possible.

    Time Frame

    • Complications from the surgery generally appear immediately or within 24 hours of the procedure. Patients are monitored in the hospital for this duration.

    Considerations

    • Carotid artery surgery will help lower a patient's risk of stroke. Lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, also will be recommended.

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