Carotid Artery Surgery (Carotid Endarterectomy)
Stroke Prevention Expertise in Arcadia, Pasadena, Glendale & the San Gabriel Valley
At Kronson Vein Institute, we know that discovering plaque buildup or narrowing in the carotid arteries can cause understandable concern. Carotid artery disease increases the risk of stroke, and timely treatment can be lifesaving.
We are here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and leading surgical expertise.
Located in Arcadia and serving the San Gabriel Valley — including Pasadena, Glendale, Monrovia, Temple City, and surrounding communities — our practice is led by Dr. Jeffrey Kronson, a board-certified vascular and endovascular surgeon with 20+ years of experience. He has successfully treated thousands of patients with advanced surgical and minimally invasive vascular procedures.
Why Kronson Vein Institute?
Markets Served
Arcadia • Pasadena • Glendale • San Gabriel Valley
Years in Practice
Dr. Kronson: 20+ years
Patient Volume
Thousands of patients successfully treated
What Is Carotid Artery Surgery (Carotid Endarterectomy)?
Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a highly effective, time-testeda surgical procedure performed to remove plaque buildup in the carotid arteries.
These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain, and when narrowed due to atherosclerosis, they can significantly increase the risk of stroke.
Carotid endarterectomy is considered the gold standard treatment for preventing stroke in patients with moderate to severe carotid artery stenosis.
Key Highlights:
- Removes plaque directly from the artery
- Restores healthy blood flow to the brain
- Reduces long-term stroke risk
- Performed under local or general anesthesia
- Typically completed in 1–2 hours
Proven long-term outcomes supported by decades of clinical research
When Carotid Surgery May Be Recommended
You may be a candidate for carotid endarterectomy if you have:
- Temporary weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Sudden vision changes
- Difficulty speaking
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA / “mini-stroke”)
- A history of stroke linked to carotid blockage
- High-risk plaque characteristics identified by imaging
- Asymptomatic stenosis with significant narrowing (>70%)
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to preventing future stroke events. Book an appointment if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Benefits of Carotid Endarterectomy
Benefit | What You Can Expect |
Proven Stroke | Significantly lowers long-term stroke risk. |
Direct Plaque | Physically clears plaque from the artery. |
Durable Results | Long-established success with strong clinical outcomes. |
Short Procedure | Typically 1–2 hours. |
Rapid Recovery | Most patients return home within 24–48 hours. |
Our team ensures you feel informed and comfortable throughout the entire process.
How Carotid Endarterectomy Works
1. Diagnostic Imaging
A detailed ultrasound, CT angiogram, or MRI is reviewed to assess plaque severity and determine candidacy.
2. Anesthesia for Comfort
Local or general anesthesia is administered based on individual needs and health status.
3. Surgical Access
A small incision is made along the side of the neck to expose the carotid artery safely.
4. Plaque Removal
The artery is gently opened, and plaque is removed directly from the arterial wall.
5. Artery Restoration
The artery is repaired — often with a patch to widen the artery and reduce recurrence risk — then normal blood flow is restored.
6. Stroke Protection
By removing the blockage, the risk of future stroke is significantly reduced.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Most patients go home within 1–2 days
- Normal daily activity can often resume within about a week
- Temporary soreness or mild swelling at the incision site is common
- Follow-up imaging ensures the artery remains clear
- Dr. Kronson and our team monitor your progress closely to ensure safe, thorough healing
Our compassionate team will provide personalized instructions and remain available to support you at every step of your recovery.
Why Patients Choose Kronson Vein Institute
- Board-certified vascular & endovascular surgeon
- 20+ years of advanced vascular surgery experience
- Thousands of patients successfully treated
- Evidence-based stroke prevention and vascular care
- Advanced diagnostic imaging and surgical technology
- Clear, compassionate communication and patient education
- Convenient Arcadia location serving the entire San Gabriel Valley
Our mission is to ensure you feel heard, supported, and confident in your care.
What Patients are saying about Carotid Endarterectomy
5.0 Stars | 3 Reviews
Start Living Life
Schedule a Carotid Surgery Evaluation
If you’ve been diagnosed with carotid artery stenosis — or are experiencing warning signs of reduced blood flow to the brain — timely evaluation is essential.
Call us or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Kronson.
We are here to protect your long-term health, reduce your risk of stroke, and support your path to recovery.