Personal stories about carotid endarterectomy surgery

These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.

Charlene, age 68: I had a mild stroke about 3 months ago. Fortunately, it wasn't too bad. With a lot of therapy, I am now able to walk and do many of the things I did before, although my right side is weak. I have a fair amount of narrowing in my carotid arteries, so I am going to have the surgery. I would hate to have another stroke and lose any more function.

David, age 70: I had a mini-stroke (my doctor called it a TIA) about 2 months ago. I had the test that looks at the carotid arteries when the major hospital sent a mobile unit to our area. I have about 65% narrowing in the artery. I could have the carotid surgery, but the closest major hospital is a couple hundred miles away, and I would rather not have surgery so far from home.

Roberto, age 71: I am fortunate to live in a major city that has very good hospitals. My doctor knows his complication rate from carotid surgery, and it is very low. Other than my narrow arteries, I am in good health and I've never had a stroke or even a mini-stroke. I think I stand to gain enough from having surgery to make up for the risks involved in it.

Golda, age 67: I have never had any symptoms of a stroke or a TIA, although my carotid arteries are about 70% narrowed. The risks of the surgery sound like they are almost as high as the benefit I would gain. Since I don't have any symptoms, I would rather not have surgery for now. Until something happens, I'll take my aspirin every day, eat right, exercise, and take my blood pressure medicine.