Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure. In it, a fatty buildup of plaque is removed from the carotid artery. (This is the main artery in the neck that brings blood to the head.)

This procedure has been widely used as a way to reduce stroke risk. Studies show carotid endarterectomy benefits certain patients whose carotid arteries are narrowed by 60 percent or more.

There's some risk that this surgery may cause a stroke from a cerebral embolism (blood clot that breaks loose and travels to the brain). The number of cases of this complication varies among surgeons and medical institutions.

For stroke information, call the American Stroke Association at 1-888-4-STROKE. 

• Heart and Stroke Facts
• Stroke: Are You at Risk? 
• Know the Facts... Get the Stats 
• Sheets from Let's Talk About Stroke kit
• "What Is Carotid Endarterectomy?" in Answers By Heart kit