Carotid Artery Stenosis

The word stenosis means narrowing, and carotid artery stenosis is the accumulation of blood vessel plaques within the carotid artery. These plaques, which are composed of fats and other debris, constrict the carotid artery, decreasing blood flow to the brain. As the artery gets narrower and narrower, patients become more likely to have a piece of plaque break off and travel into the brain. This is called an embolization, and it is a common cause of strokes.

Symptoms of carotid artery stenosis are typically neurological. There may be vision changes or loss of vision, word finding trouble, or weakness. If these symptoms are permanent, a stroke has occurred. More often, however, are mini-strokes, or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). TIA symptoms can last anywhere from a few minutes to hours and usually resolve. However, a patient with a TIA due to carotid artery stenosis is at high risk for stroke in the near future. If you or a family member is having TIAs, it is imperative to see be evaluated as soon as possible. Dr. Hatef performs a procedure called carotid endarterectomy to clean the plaque and other debris from the carotid artery and allow smoother flow. Studies have shown it is highly effective in preventing strokes in patients with severe carotid artery stenosis.