At Vital Vein & Vascular, treatment for carotid artery disease depends on the degree of narrowing, symptoms, vascular anatomy, and overall health. Options may include medical management and lifestyle changes, carotid endarterectomy, or minimally invasive procedures when intervention is appropriate.
Carotid Artery Disease Treatment in Orange County
Carotid artery disease occurs when plaque builds up in the carotid arteries, narrowing the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain. Many people have no symptoms, while others may experience a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke symptoms.
At Vital Vein & Vascular, we provide personalized evaluation and treatment based on the degree of narrowing, symptoms, vascular anatomy, and individual health needs.
VASCULAR EVALUATION
STROKE RISK ASSESSMENT
PERSONALIZED TREATMENT
Trusted vascular care
TRUSTED VASCULAR CARE
SYMPTOMS OF CAROTID ARTERY DISEASE
KNOW THE SIGNS. ACT EARLY.
Carotid artery disease may not cause symptoms in its early stages. Warning signs can occur when reduced or interrupted
blood flow to the brain causes a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke.
Sudden numbness or weakness
Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body, may be a warning sign of a TIA or stroke.
SUDDEN CONFUSION OR SPEECH DIFFICULTY
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, slurred speech, or difficulty understanding others may be warning signs of a TIA or stroke.
Sudden vision change
Sudden blurred or lost vision in one or both eyes, including temporary vision loss, may be a warning sign of a TIA or stroke.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTING FOR CAROTID ARTERY DISEASE
ACCURATE TESTING. CLEAR ANSWERS.
carotid ultrasound
Carotid duplex ultrasound is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to evaluate blood flow through the carotid arteries and identify narrowing or plaque.
CT ANGIOGRAPHY
CT angiography uses X-rays and contrast dye to create detailed images of the carotid arteries. It can help evaluate the location and extent of narrowing and provide anatomical information for treatment planning.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE ANGIOGRAPHY (MRA)
MRA uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the carotid arteries. Depending on the situation, contrast may be used to improve visualization of the blood vessels.
ANGIOgram
A catheter angiogram uses a thin catheter and contrast dye to create detailed X-ray images of the blood vessels. It may be considered when additional vascular imaging is needed or when results from other tests are unclear.
WHAT WE TREAT
Treatment Options for Carotid Artery Disease
LIFESTYLE CHANGES & MEDICAL MANAGEMENT
Medical management may include healthy lifestyle changes, smoking cessation, cholesterol and blood pressure control, and medications such as antiplatelet agents when appropriate. These measures help reduce stroke and cardiovascular risk and may be used with or without a procedure, depending on the individual patient.
ONGOING MANAGEMENT
MEDICATION
LIFESTYLE CHANGES
STROKE RISK REDUCTION
CAROTID ENDARTERECTOMY (CEA)
Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes plaque from the carotid artery through an incision in the neck. It may be recommended for selected patients with significant carotid artery narrowing, particularly when symptoms and other clinical factors indicate that intervention is appropriate.
SURGICAL PROCEDURE
NECK INCISION
PLAQUE REMOVAL
SELECTED CASES
CAROTID ARTERY STENTING (CAS)
Carotid artery stenting is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a catheter to place a small mesh stent inside the carotid artery. The stent helps keep the narrowed artery open and maintain blood flow. Whether CAS is appropriate depends on factors such as symptoms, vascular anatomy, age, and overall health.
MINIMALLY INVASIVE
CATHETER-BASED
STENT PLACEMENT
SELECTED CASES
MANAGING RISK FACTORS
Managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking can help reduce cardiovascular and stroke risk in people with carotid artery disease. At Vital Vein & Vascular, your care plan may include medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring based on your individual needs.
ONGOING CARE
MEDICATION & LIFESTYLE
REGULAR MONITORING
RISK REDUCTION
Meet Your Surgeon
Dr. Christopher yi, MD
Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon · Founder, Vital Vein & Vascular
Dr. Christopher Yi founded Vital Vein & Vascular with a simple belief: patients deserve exceptional vascular care—and a clear understanding of their health.
As a board-certified vascular surgeon, Dr. Yi provides comprehensive care for conditions affecting the arteries and veins, from common circulation and vein concerns to complex vascular disease requiring advanced intervention or surgery. His experience spans both hospital-based vascular surgery and minimally invasive outpatient treatment, allowing him to evaluate each patient with the full range of treatment options in mind.
Dr. Yi believes the best treatment starts with the right diagnosis. He takes the time to explain what is happening, review treatment options clearly, and recommend what is medically appropriate for each patient—even when treatment isn't necessary.
That philosophy is at the heart of Vital Vein & Vascular: advanced vascular expertise, thoughtful treatment, and care patients can trust.
Board Certified
Vascular Surgery
Fellowship
Trained
California
Medical License
Member
SVS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the main cause of carotid artery disease?
Carotid artery disease is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries. This plaque consists of cholesterol, fat, and other substances that accumulate over time, narrowing the arteries and restricting blood flow to the brain.
Can carotid artery disease be prevented?
While carotid artery disease cannot always be prevented, the risk can be significantly reduced by adopting a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and managing conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
Is carotid artery disease curable?
Carotid artery disease is not curable, but it is manageable. With early detection and the appropriate treatment, the progression of the disease can be slowed, and the risk of stroke can be significantly reduced.
What is the recovery time after carotid endarterectomy?
Recovery time after carotid endarterectomy varies, but most patients are able to return to normal activities within 2–4 weeks. Dr. Yi will provide specific post-operative care instructions based on your individual health and the complexity of the procedure.
Are there risks associated with carotid artery stenting?
As with any medical procedure, there are risks involved with carotid artery stenting. These may include stroke, bleeding, or restenosis (re-narrowing of the artery). Dr. Yi will discuss all potential risks and benefits with you to determine the best course of action for your condition.