Carotid Artery Blockage, Diagnosis and Treatment

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—and to power the myriad functions of the body. Carotid artery disease develops when the arteries narrow or become blocked due to fatty plaque build up (also known as atherosclerosis). As a somewhat silent disease—that may not produce obvious signs or symptoms—carotid artery blockage is a major cause of stroke.

At the NorthShore Neurological Institute, uniquely qualified multidisciplinary specialists provide the latest diagnostic and treatment options for patients with carotid artery disease through a service of our comprehensive stroke program. As experts in stroke and other disorders affecting vessels that supply the brain, our stroke team is exceptionally suited for recognizing and preventing stroke, carotid artery blockage and other serious medical conditions as a result of carotid artery disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment
At the NorthShore Neurological Institute, our highly trained vascular and endovascular specialists conduct thorough evaluations of patients to determine the best course of treatment. And our team of fellowship-trained neurologists, neurosurgeons and other health professionals use a number of sophisticated imaging technologies, including carotid ultrasound, CT angiography of the neck and magnetic resonance angiography, to look deep within the arteries and assess the extent of narrowing 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 treatment options ranging from carotid endarterectomy—a surgical procedure to remove the inner lining of the carotid artery—to less-invasive techniques such as carotid angioplasty and stenting. Innovative minimally-invasive technologies allow our nationally-renowned interventional neurosurgeons to safely open up blockages in carotid arteries for patients who may not be candidates for other treatment options. These advanced surgical techniques feature local instead of general anesthesia, smaller incisions, less pain and shorter recovery times.

The Neurological Institute’s endovascular neurosurgical team employs a variety of cutting-edge balloons and stents that are effective in reopening and repairing narrowed arteries.

Team Care Advantage
Our Neurological Institute experts use a collaborative approach, working with other disciplines within the NorthShore system, to ensure patients receive the best full-service, compassionate care. Since carotid artery disease accounts for more than half of the 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 stroke team.

One of a few in the region to hold a Certified Stroke Center designation, NorthShore meets the stringent requirements of the Joint Commission, including a 24/7 Acute Stroke Team.

Please call 877.570.7020 for more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.