guidelines for carotid endarterectomy

Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove plaque buildup from the carotid arteries in the neck, which can reduce stroke risk. Guidelines typically recommend considering this surgery if a person has significant artery narrowing (usually 70% or more), especially if they've had symptoms like a mini-stroke or transient ischemic attack. For moderate narrowing (50-69%), the decision depends on individual risk factors and overall health. The goal is to prevent strokes by improving blood flow to the brain. Doctors evaluate each patient carefully, considering symptoms, artery blockage severity, and surgical risks, to determine if this procedure is appropriate.