Gustavo S. Oderich, MD, FACS

Complex Aortic & Endovascular Surgery

Carotid Artery Disease

Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA)

The time-tested operation to lower stroke risk.

Overview

What it is

Carotid endarterectomy removes plaque from the carotid artery in the neck through a small incision, reducing the risk of stroke. It is a durable, well-established operation for significant carotid narrowing.

When it’s recommended

  • Significant carotid artery narrowing
  • Recent stroke or TIA from carotid disease
  • Patients suited to open surgery

How it’s performed

Every plan is individualized and reviewed by our multidisciplinary aortic team.

Imaging confirms the degree of narrowing

The artery is opened and plaque removed

The artery is closed, often with a patch

Blood flow to the brain is restored

Recovery

Recovery & follow-up

Most patients stay one night and recover quickly, with follow-up imaging of the carotid arteries.

Why the Baylor Medicine Center for Aortic Surgery

Complex aortic care is safest in experienced hands. Dr. Oderich and the Center bring more than 7,000 open and endovascular aortic repairs of experience, advanced imaging, and a multidisciplinary team to every case.

← Back to all treatments