Carotid Surgery Specialist

What is carotid artery disease?

Carotid artery disease occurs from a build-up of plaque along the walls of your carotid arteries. The build-up narrows the passageway and the delivery of oxygen-rich blood to your brain. 

Carotid artery disease is one of the leading causes of stroke in the United States. Treatment for the vascular condition focuses on preventing a further build-up of plaque along the blood vessel wall and lowering your risk of having a stroke.

Initial treatment includes lifestyle changes and medications to manage conditions that contribute to carotid artery diseases such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. 

What is carotid surgery?

Carotid surgery is the procedure that removes plaque from the carotid artery to restore blood flow to the brain. You may benefit from carotid surgery if you have a severe blockage in the artery or have symptoms that indicate your brain isn’t getting enough oxygen, such as:

• Sudden, severe headache
• Dizziness
• Difficulty seeing
• Weakness in your face or limbs
• Trouble speaking

These symptoms may be signs of a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or mini-stroke. With a TIA, your brain isn’t getting an adequate supply of oxygen. If you or someone you love has these symptoms, you need to go to the nearest emergency room or call 911. 

How is carotid surgery performed?

Dr. Roman-Pavajeau is a skilled vascular surgeon and may use one of two methods to perform your carotid surgery.

Carotid endarterectomy

During a carotid endarterectomy, Dr. Roman-Pavajeau makes an incision in your neck and into the carotid artery at the area of blockage. He then removes the inner lining of the blood vessel to open the passageway and improve circulation. 

Carotid artery angioplasty and stenting 

With carotid artery angioplasty and stenting, Dr. Roman-Pavajeau inserts a catheter into a blood vessel and threads it to the blocked area of your carotid artery. He inflates a balloon that compresses and flattens the plaque and widens the passageway. 

Dr. Roman-Pavajeau removes the balloon and places a stent (metal mesh device) to reinforce the blood vessel wall and keep it open.

Carotid artery surgery improves blood flow to your brain, but it won’t prevent further build-up of plaque. Dr. Roman-Pavajeau recommends you continue to follow the medical treatments for your carotid artery disease to maintain good health and prevent other complications. 

To schedule your carotid surgery consultation with Jaime L. Roman-Pavajeau, MD, PA, call the office or book an appointment online today.