Type of Surgery
Information
Last updated: 02/17/2009
Peripheral endarterectomy removes plaque directly from blocked arteries; there is no alternative way to mechanically remove plaque. However, there are alternative ways to prevent plaque build-up and reduce the risk of narrowing or blocking the peripheral arteries. Certain vitamin deficiencies in older people, for example, are known to promote high levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that contributes to atherosclerosis and a higher risk for PAD. Some nutritional supplements and alternative therapies that are recommended to help promote good vascular health include:
- Folic acid can help lower homocysteine levels and increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells.
- Vitamins B6 and B12 can lower homocycteine levels.
- Antioxidant vitamins C and E work together to promote healthy blood vessels and improve circulation.
- Angelica, an herb that contains coumadin, a recognized anticoagulant, may help prevent clot formation in the blood.
- Essential fatty acids, as found in flax seed and other oils, can help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol, and maintain elasticity of blood vessels.
- Chelation therapy may be used to break up plaque and improve circulation.
Advertisement
Other Information
A peripheral endarterectomy is the surgical removal of fatty deposits, called plaque, from the walls of arteries other than those of the heart and brain. The surgery is performed when plaque blocks an artery and obstructs the flow of blood and oxygen to other parts of the body, most commonly the legs but also the arms, kidneys, or intestines. The peripheral arteries most often treated with endarterectomy are those that supply the legs, especially the aortoiliac arteries in the pelvic area. Other arteries that may be treated with endarterectomy include the femoral arteries in the groin, the renal arteries that supply the kidneys, and the superior mesenteric arteries that supply the intestines.
Other Information
In the United States, 74.2 percent of heart transplantation patients are male, 68.4 percent are white, 24.7 percent are younger than age 35, 20.0 percent are ages 35–49, and 55.3 percent are age 50 or older.
From: American Heart Association
Find a Qualified Specialist
Looking for a specialist?
Please enter your zip code.
