Carotid endarterectomy
A surgical procedure involving direct removal of atherosclerotic plaque from the carotid artery through arterial incision and plaque extraction.
Full Definition
Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is the gold standard surgical treatment for significant carotid artery stenosis, involving exposure of the carotid bifurcation, arterial clamping, longitudinal arteriotomy, and careful removal of the atherosclerotic plaque along the medial plane. The procedure may be performed under general or regional anesthesia with or without shunting for cerebral protection. Patch angioplasty using autologous vein or synthetic material is often employed to reduce recurrent stenosis risk. CEA effectively reduces stroke risk in appropriately selected patients with symptomatic or high-grade asymptomatic carotid stenosis.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate as CEA after first use. Document shunt use and patch material when applicable.
In Context
- "Carotid endarterectomy was completed with patch angioplasty using bovine pericardium, achieving excellent flow restoration." — Operative report
- "The patient experienced no neurological deficits following carotid endarterectomy for symptomatic 85% stenosis." — Post-operative assessment