Carotid artery disease, also called carotid artery stenosis, is the narrowing of the carotid arteries, usually caused by atherosclerosis. There are two common carotid arteries, one on each side of neck. They each divide into internal and external carotid arteries. The internal carotid arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to brain. The external carotid arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to face, scalp, and neck Atherosclerosis is the buildup of cholesterol, fat and other substances traveling through the bloodstream. These substances stick to the blood vessel walls over time as people age, and combine to form a material called plaque. Plaque buildup can lead to narrowing or blockage in the carotid artery which, when significant, can put an individual at increased risk for stroke.
Related Procedures
You may need a medical procedure to treat carotid artery disease. Doctors use one of two methods to open narrowed or blocked carotid arteries:
Carotid Endarterectomy
Carotid Artery Angioplasty
Carotid Artery Stenting
Experienced Doctors & Surgeons

Dr. VOURLIOTAKIS, Vascular Surgeon
Dr Vourliotakis Georgios MD, PhH – Vascular Surgeon Specializes in: Vascular Surgery Location: Athens Here you can find further information about Dr Vourliotakis, his scientific work and his activities in the field of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery. Dr. VOURLIOTAKIS, Vascular Surgeon