Manage your risk of carotid artery disease

Model: Carotid artery I (SJJ004D-01)

Carotid artery disease occurs when the blood vessels supplying your brain and head, known as carotid arteries, are damaged or blocked by fatty deposits. These deposits contain cholesterol that organizes as a plaque, which clogs or blocks the carotid arteries. This is similar to coronary artery disease, which reduces blood flow to your heart. This blockage in blood vessels increases your risk of stroke — a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or seriously reduced. When a stroke occurs, oxygen can't reach the brain, and brain cells begin to die within minutes. Usually, carotid artery disease develops slowly. The first sign that you have the disease may be a stroke or transient ischemic attack, or TIA, a temporary decrease of blood flow to your brain.

Who is at risk for carotid artery disease?

Your risk of developing carotid artery disease increases if you have a family history of the disease or atherosclerosis. Age also is a risk factor. As you age, your arteries become less flexible and are more easily damaged.

What are treatments for carotid artery disease?

Preventing a stroke is the primary goal of treating carotid artery disease. A treatment plan will be based on the degree of blockage in your carotid arteries and could include a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications and surgery.Treatment for mild to moderate blockages may include lifestyle changes to slow the progression of damage to your arteries, including quitting smoking, losing weight, reducing salt intake and exercising regularly. Medication to control blood pressure, lower cholesterol or prevent blood clots also may be recommended. Your care team may recommend removing the blockage from the artery if it is causing severe narrowing or if you have already had a stroke or TIA.

The carotid artery model is made of transparent silicone and includes ACA,MCA and internal carotid artery, the M1 segment of MCA features embolism lesions. The model is primarily designed to simulate thrombectomy operation on MCA.