About Carotid Endarterectomy
Key Highlights
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Proven to significantly reduce the risk of future stroke in patients with significant carotid artery narrowing.Restores normal blood flow to the brain, improving cerebral circulation.Can alleviate symptoms like transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or mini-strokes.Long-term solution for plaque removal compared to solely medical management.Performed by highly skilled specialists, often with minimal post-operative pain.
Who is this surgery for?
- Symptomatic carotid artery stenosis (narrowing) of 70% or more, especially after a TIA or minor stroke.
- Asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis of 80% or more in select patients, depending on overall health and life expectancy.
- Recurrent TIAs (transient ischemic attacks) despite optimal medical therapy.
- Presence of an ulcerated or unstable plaque in the carotid artery, as seen on imaging.
- Progressive narrowing of the carotid artery observed on sequential scans.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive pre-operative evaluation including blood tests, ECG, and chest X-ray.
- Detailed imaging of the carotid arteries via ultrasound, CT angiography, or MR angiography.
- Review and possible adjustment of current medications (e.g., blood thinners may need to be stopped temporarily).
- Discussion of anesthesia options (general or local with sedation) with the anesthesiologist.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before the surgery as instructed.
- Arranging for post-operative support and transportation home after discharge.
Risks & possible complications
- Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) during or immediately after the procedure.
- Bleeding or hematoma formation at the surgical site in the neck.
- Infection of the incision wound.
- Injury to nearby nerves, which may cause temporary or permanent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or numbness.
- Heart attack, especially in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.
- Restenosis (re-narrowing) of the artery over time.
- Reactions to anesthesia.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial hospital stay for 1-2 days for monitoring of neurological status and incision site.
- Neck may feel sore and tight; pain medication will be provided.
- Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and driving for at least 2 weeks.
- Keep the incision clean and dry; follow specific wound care instructions.
- Gradually resume normal daily activities as comfort allows, typically within a week.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for wound checks and possibly a follow-up ultrasound.
- Adhere strictly to prescribed medications, including antiplatelets (like aspirin) and statins, to prevent future plaque buildup.
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Typical hospital stay: 1-2 days
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Expected recovery time: 2-3 weeks for normal activities; 6-8 weeks for complete healing
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering carotid endarterectomy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for carotid endarterectomy in India include Miot Hospital Chennai, Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Kamineni Hospital, King Koti, Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform carotid endarterectomy. MediFyr helps you compare cardiologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for carotid endarterectomy compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 150 Thousand – 350 Thousand | 1-2 days | ~ 2-3 weeks for normal activities; 6-8 weeks for complete healing | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 525 Thousand – 1.23 Million | 1-2 days | ~ 2-3 weeks for normal activities; 6-8 weeks for complete healing | Know More |
Top hospitals for Carotid Endarterectomy in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated cardiology teams and experience managing patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy.
Ayaan Das, 68, is a retired...
Ayaan Das, 68, is a retired history professor from Kolkata who lives with his wife and enjoys long walks and reading. For several months, he experienced brief, alarming episodes of weakness and numbness in his right arm and slurred speech, each lasting only minutes. A concerned visit to his cardiologist, Dr. Sharma, revealed a significant, unstable plaque buildup (80% stenosis) in his left carotid artery, putting him at high risk for a major stroke. Dr. Sharma recommended a carotid endarterectomy, explaining it as a proactive 'road-clearing' surgery to prevent a catastrophic brain event. Ayaan was terrified of stroke but equally anxious about brain surgery. The procedure went smoothly under general anesthesia. In recovery, he had a sore throat and neck stiffness, but the transient symptoms stopped immediately. After a few weeks of careful rest, he regained full strength and returned to his walks with immense relief. His emotional journey shifted from a constant, low-grade fear of the next 'spell' to a profound gratitude for a second chance, allowing him to focus on enjoying his grandchildren instead of waiting for disaster.
Cardiologists for Carotid Endarterectomy
Explore experienced cardiologists who regularly perform carotid endarterectomy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 22 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 8 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 10 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 9 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 29 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 24 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 13 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 7 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 12 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 21 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
- 20 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 16 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 20 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 22 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 18 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 33 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 55 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 25 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 35 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 11 Years Experience
- Cardiologist
Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala