Definition

1. Noun:
   • A surgical procedure to remove the inner lining of an artery: An "endarterectomy" is a specific operation where the diseased inner layer (the intima) of an artery is removed. This is typically done to clear a blockage caused by atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fatty plaques.

Usage

• This term is used exclusively in medical contexts to describe this particular surgical intervention.
• It is often specified by the artery involved (e.g., carotid endarterectomy).

Examples

• Noun:
  • The patient underwent a successful carotid endarterectomy to restore blood flow to the brain.
  • Endarterectomy is a common treatment for severe arterial stenosis.

Advanced Usage

• "Carotid endarterectomy": The most common specific type, performed on the carotid arteries in the neck to prevent stroke.
  • His risk of stroke decreased significantly after the carotid endarterectomy.

Variants and Related Words

• Endarterectomies (n): The plural form.
  • The surgeon has performed hundreds of endarterectomies.

Synonyms

• Arterial decortication: A less common technical synonym.
• Artery cleaning surgery: A very informal, non-technical description.

Notes on Meaning

• The procedure is not the removal of the entire artery, but specifically its diseased inner lining.
• It is a treatment for atherosclerosis, not for other conditions like aneurysms.

Noun

1. surgical removal of the inner lining of an artery that is clogged with atherosclerosis