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.

NYU Resources

Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery

Minimally Invasive Vascular Surgery

Noninvasive Vascular Laboratory

Other Resources on the Web

American Stroke Association

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Society of Interventional Radiology

Society for Vascular Surgery