This is an operation, which aims to improve the blood flow to the brain through the internal carotid artery in order to prevent stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).
The procedure consists of removal of atheromatous plaque, which is causing a narrowing the internal carotid artery. It can be performed under local anaesthesia (you are awake) or general one (you are asleep). Local anesthesia is preferable, because during the procedure you are asked to talk to us or squeeze a ball in order to monitor your brain perfusion. The procedure is done by making a cut starting at the bottom of the neck just above your collar bone, going obliquely upwards and backwards in the direction of the ear lobe. After cleaning the artery from the plaque it is closed, most often with a patch to keep the vessel widely patent.
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