Carotid Artery Stenosis
The carotid arteries in the front of the neck are major vessels through which blood travels to the brain. The build-up of debris in these arteries, causing plaque, narrows the pathway through which blood can flow, deprives the brain of the oxygen it needs, and is the leading cause of stroke. This narrowing is called carotid artery stenosis.
The diagnosis of carotid artery stenosis is made noninvasively, beginning with a physical examination and then using either ultrasound or magnetic resonance angiogram. These tests are available at NYU Medical Center, including the Noninvasive Vascular Laboratory.
No medical therapy has been as effective as surgery in preventing stroke. In NYU's Division of Vascular Surgery, 85% of carotid endarterectomies -- minimally invasive surgical removal of carotid plaque -- are performed under local anesthesia. An incision is made along the side of the neck, the carotid artery is opened, plaque is removed, and the artery is closed with a synthetic fabric patch.
Screening is the most effective way to detect strokes. The Division of Vascular Surgery offers a no-cost stroke prevention screening. To be eligible, participants must be at least 60 years of age; be a smoker, have high blood pressure, or have a history of heart disease; or have a history of stroke in the immediate family. Individuals who qualify for this screening should call 212-263-7709.
Other Resources on the WebNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Society of Interventional Radiology
Vascular Web Patient Information
Our Carotid Artery Stenosis Specialists
NYU Langone Medical Center
550 First Avenue
New York, NY 10016
1-877-4-NYUCVI (698284)
Mark A. Adelman, M.D.
Chief of Vascular Surgery
Neal Cayne, M.D.
Director of the NYU Endovascular Surgery Program
Glenn R. Jacobowitz, M.D.
Vice Chief of the NYU Division of Vascular Surgery / Director of Vascular Surgical Services at Tisch Hospital
Lowell S. Kabnick, M.D.
Director of the NYU Vein Center
Patrick J. Lamparello, M.D.
Vice-Chair of Vascular Surgery / Director of the Vascular Surgery Fellowship Program
Thomas Maldonado, M.D.
Chief of Vascular Surgery, Bellevue Hospital
Firas F. Mussa, M.D.
Assistant Professor of Surgery at the NYU School of Medicine
Thomas S. Riles, M.D.
Associate Dean for Medical Education and Technology / Frank C. Spencer Professor of Surgery
Caron Rockman, M.D.
Director of Medical Education and the Director of Clinical Research for the NYU Division of Vascular Surgery
Frank J. Veith, M.D.
The First U.S. Surgeon to Perform an Endovascular Aneurysm Repair
