What is Carotid Endarterectomy?
Carotid arteries -- blood vessels located in the neck -- carry the major supply of blood to the head and brain. Carotid artery disease occurs when these arteries become thickened or blocked by the build-up of plaque. Those at highest risk for the disease are adults, 65 and older. Left untreated, this disease can lead to stroke. If the blockage becomes severe, patients may be treated with a surgical procedure known as carotid endarterectomy. The procedure is designed to remove plaque, along with the inner lining of the artery.

A fast track to better health
In many hospitals, a carotid endarterectomy includes a two- to three-day hospital stay, including one day before the operation and a 24-hour stay in the Intensive Care Unit following the procedure.

At Baptist Hospital East, patients have an added advantage with the Fast Track Carotid Endarterectomy procedure. Prior to the procedure, patients are taught one-on-one what to expect and how to prepare for their hospital stay. In addition, there is no need for patients to be admitted pre-operatively to prepare for the procedure. They're admitted the same day, following their surgery.

Quickly returning home
After surgery, patients are cared for on a monitored vascular unit, specially designed and staffed for vascular patients. Most important, patients go home the day after surgery.

For more information on the Fast Track Carotid Endarterectomy procedure, contact Melanie Lee, RN, at (502) 897-8598. For a physician referral, call the Baptist East Information Center at (502) 897-8131.

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