Artery Disorders Overview

Carotid Artery Blockages (Carotid Stenosis)

The carotid arteries are the two major arteries in the neck, located on either side of the windpipe, that provide most of the blood supply to the brain. Over time, these arteries may become narrowed or blocked due to a process called atherosclerosis or "hardening of the arteries". The buildup may obstruct the blood flow to the brain, leading to a stroke or a "mini" stroke called a “transcient ischemic attack” (TIA).

Carotid artery blockages are the cause of more than half of all strokes. What causes it? Family history, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, smoking, and obesity, predispose some people to the condition.

Mild carotid artery disease can sometimes be treated with medication. Smoking cessation and reduction of cholesterol levels can also be effective for some cases. More severe cases of carotid artery disease are usually treated with an operation called carotid endarterectomy. In certain people, carotid stenting can be performed, a minimally invasive procedure.

Kidney Artery Blockages (Renal Artery Stenosis)

When blood flow through the kidneys is normal, they rid your body of wastes. The kidneys filter these wastes into your urine, which collects in your bladder, and from there the wastes exit your body when you urinate. Your kidneys also help control your blood pressure by sensing the blood pressure and secreting a hormone, called renin, into your bloodstream.  The amount of renin secreted by your kidneys can help regulate your blood pressure if it is too high or too low.  When your kidney blood vessels narrow or have a clot, your kidney is less able to do its work. Your physician may diagnose you with renal artery stenosis or renal vein thrombosis (blood clot).

Blood clots in renal veins are uncommon and rarely affect the kidney, but they can sometimes travel to and lodge in arteries supplying your lungs, causing a dangerous condition called a pulmonary embolism.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA)

When the aorta reaches your abdomen, it is called the "abdominal" aorta. The abdominal aorta supplies blood to the lower part of the body. In the abdomen, just below the navel, the aorta splits into two branches, called the iliac arteries, which carry blood into each leg. When a weak area of the abdominal aorta expands or bulges, it is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). The pressure from blood flowing through your abdominal aorta can cause a weakened part of the aorta to bulge, much like a balloon. A normal aorta is about 1 inch (or about 2 centimeters) in diameter. However, an AAA can stretch the aorta beyond its safety margin as it expands. Aneurysms are a health risk because they can burst or rupture. A ruptured aneurysm can cause severe internal bleeding, which can lead to shock or even death.

Lower Extremity Blockages (Peripheral Artery Disease) PAD

Lower Extremity Blockages can occur in many people who suffer from atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. This is caused by the accumulation of a fatty substance called plaque on the inside of the walls of arteries. Atherosclerosis can cause narrowing of any of the arteries throughout the body. This narrowing or occlusion is called stenosis, and can occur in the arteries in the (the legs), or more infrequently in the arms. When it occurs in the legs and feet, it causes a disease known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

Narrowing of the arteries in the lower extremities of the body decreases the blood supply to the muscles and tissues in the surrounding area (poor circulation).

At Horizon Surgical Group, we are pleased to offer minimally invasive and open procedures to treat PAD. If you are suffering from the effects of varicose veins, this revolutionary treatment may help you.

For more information about arterial disease, contact us.