What Is Aortic Endarterectomy?

Endarterectomy is performed to remove plaque located inside an artery. Plaque is a fatty, waxy deposit which slowly builds-up in the arteries over time and affects them by making them thicker and narrower. This is known as atherosclerosis.

How serious is a blockage in the aorta?

Sudden blockage shuts off blood flow, which causes immediate, severe pain. Pain may be in the abdomen, back, or legs, depending on which artery is blocked. Organ failure and tissue death (necrosis) occur within hours unless blood flow is restored.

What is atherosclerosis endarterectomy?

An atherosclerosis endarterectomy is the open surgical removal of plaque from a blood vessel.