Carotid Endarterectomy in Wausau, WI

Name: Carotid Endarterectomy
Brand: Surgical Associates
Rating: 5 (25 reviews)

Experience the best in care with Surgical Associates, where we combine advanced technology and expert surgeons to perform carotid endarterectomies, significantly reducing the risk of stroke. Carotid endarterectomy is a vital surgical procedure aimed at preventing strokes in individuals who have significant carotid artery disease.

What is carotid endarterectomy?

Carotid endarterectomy involves removing this plaque to restore normal blood flow, thereby reducing the risk of stroke. At Surgical Associates, we have a team of highly skilled and experienced vascular surgeons who specialize in carotid endarterectomy in Wausau, WI. We're dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. Our aim is not just to treat the disease but also to provide support and guidance throughout the journey from diagnosis to recovery.

Am I a good candidate for carotid endarterectomy?

If you have significant narrowing or blockage in your carotid arteries, particularly if you've had a TIA or minor stroke, you may be a good candidate for carotid endarterectomy. However, every patient's situation is unique, and other factors, such as your overall health and specific medical conditions, can influence whether this procedure is right for you. Our team at Surgical Associates will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine the best treatment approach.

When is carotid endarterectomy used?

Carotid endarterectomy is recommended when one or both carotid arteries are narrowed or blocked due to plaque build-up, a condition known as carotid artery disease. This condition can significantly increase the risk of stroke as it may restrict blood flow to the brain or cause a clot to form. Your doctor might recommend this procedure if you've already had a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or a minor stroke due to this condition or if tests show severe narrowing or blockage in your carotid arteries even if you've had no symptoms.

Understanding carotid artery disease

Carotid artery disease is a condition where plaque builds up in the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain. This build-up can restrict blood flow, leading to a stroke. Common symptoms include sudden weakness, loss of vision, and difficulty speaking. However, many people with carotid artery disease may not experience any symptoms until they have a stroke. At Surgical Associates, we provide comprehensive education to help patients understand their condition and the importance of early detection and treatment.

What is the procedure for carotid endarterectomy?

Carotid endarterectomy is usually performed under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision along the front of your neck, opens the affected carotid artery, and removes the plaques that are clogging the artery. Then, the surgeon stitches the artery back together using a patch, restores blood flow to the brain, and closes the neck incision. The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, and patients often stay in the hospital for one night afterward for monitoring.

What is the recovery from carotid endarterectomy?

Recovery times can vary, but most people can expect to return to regular activities within a few weeks. Some neck discomfort, difficulty swallowing, or voice changes may occur after surgery but usually improve within a week. At Surgical Associates, we offer robust follow-up care, including regular check-ups and imaging tests to ensure your recovery is on track.

Benefits of carotid endarterectomy at Surgical Associates

Choosing Surgical Associates for your carotid endarterectomy in Wausau offers numerous benefits. Our highly experienced surgeons are experts in performing this procedure. We prioritize patient comfort and safety, using minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, reducing recovery time. Our individualized care approach ensures that each patient receives the attention and care they need for successful treatment and recovery.

Advanced technology in carotid endarterectomy

At Surgical Associates, we leverage advanced technology to improve the outcomes of carotid endarterectomy. The technology allows us to perform procedures with high precision and minimal invasion, leading to faster recoveries and improved patient comfort. We also stay updated on the latest medical advancements, ensuring that our patients receive the best care possible.

Why choose Surgical Associates for carotid endarterectomy?

We take a personal approach to healthcare with surgeons who listen to your concerns and explain complex medical terms in understandable language. We work closely with medical suppliers to stay updated on the best technology and techniques for optimal outcomes. With a high patient satisfaction rating, we focus on delivering individualized care that meets the unique needs of each patient.