Our NorthShore Neurological Institute experts use a collaborative approach to ensure patients receive the best full-service care for stroke, carotid artery blockage and other serious medical conditions as a result of carotid artery disease. Our uniquely qualified multidisciplinary specialists are recognized in providing high-quality diagnostic and carotid artery blockage treatment. All four of our NorthShore hospitals are Certified Primary Stroke Centers, a stringent designation given by the Joint Commission.
Carotid arteries located in the neck have a very important job: through them flows the blood that carries the oxygen and nutrients the brain needs to work properly. Carotid artery disease develops when the arteries narrow or become blocked due to fatty plaque buildup (also known as atherosclerosis). A somewhat silent disease—that may not produce obvious signs or symptoms—carotid artery blockage is a major cause of stroke.
Since carotid artery blockage accounts for a significant proportion of strokes that occur in the United States, patients who come to our hospitals with transient stroke-like symptoms—often associated with narrowing of the arteries—benefit from the combined knowledge and experience of our 24/7 Acute Stroke Team.
Carotid Artery Blockage Diagnosis and Treatment
At the NorthShore Neurological Institute, our highly skilled vascular and endovascular specialists conduct thorough evaluations of patients to determine the best course of carotid artery blockage treatment. Our team uses a number of sophisticated imaging technologies, including carotid ultrasound, CT angiography of the neck, magnetic resonance angiography and catheter cerebral angiography, to look deep within the arteries and assess the extent of carotid artery blockage or damage.
Some patients may benefit from medications and lifestyle changes including diet; while others may be candidates for revascularization (opening up the narrowed artery) to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of stroke.
Our specialists offer carotid artery blockage treatments ranging from:
- Carotid endarterectomy—a surgical procedure to remove atherosclerotic plaque
- Minimally invasive techniques such as carotid angioplasty and stenting to reopen and repair carotid artery blockage.
For More Information
Please call 877.570.7020 for more information on carotid artery blockage and carotid endarterectomy or to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists