Vascular Surgery

The carotid arteries are the blood vessels (coronary arteries) that carry oxygenated blood to the head, brain and face. They are located on each side of the neck. These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to the large front part of the brain which control thought, personality, speech, as well as our sensory and motor functions. Carotid Artery disease occurs due to the narrowing of these arteries mostly due to atherosclerosis (plaque buildup). These plaques may break and block smaller arteries in the brain. The arteries are the source of oxygenated blood to the brain but this blockage interrupts the blood flow thus increasing the risk of stroke. A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, such as vision, speech problems or paralysis; or death.