If I have surgery for carotid artery disease and the blockage (plaque) is removed, am I still at risk for stroke?
Carotid surgery will reduce but not eliminate the risk of future stroke. Carotid artery disease is roughly associated to 1/3 of all strokes. Strokes can otherwise occur as a result of other conditions such as atrial fibrillation, atherosclerosis of the small brain vessels or intracranial bleed.
