Non-invasive Imaging

• One or more imaging procedures may be done to assess the presence and extent of plaque buildup in the carotid arteries. Ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to take pictures of the carotid arteries.
  
  

Angiography

• Angiography is imaging of the arteries using X-ray and a dye. A dye is injected using a catheter and X-rays are taken to demonstrate where arteries may be narrowed or blocked.
  
  

Endarterectomy

• A surgeon may perform an endarterectomy to remove plaque from the inner lining of the artery. The result is an open artery free of plaque.
  
  

Angioplasty

• With angioplasty, a catheter is inserted into a groin artery and guided to the site of narrowing. A balloon is inflated to flatten the plaque, creating a larger opening in the artery.
  
  

Stenting

• A stent is placed in the artery where the narrowing has occurred to keep the artery open. It is usually done in conjunction with angioplasty.