Atherosclerosis, hardening of the arteries, is a chronic, progressive disease. Fatty deposits, or plaque, collect on the inner walls of the arteries causing them to narrow, referred to as stenosis. Fatty deposits progressively build up on the lining of an artery over a period of years, creating tiny wounds which enlarge and thicken to form plaque. Plaque narrows the artery and obstructs the flow of blood through it.
Learn more about atherosclerosis
Diagnosis of Atherosclerosis
If you’ve been diagnosed with atherosclerosis, we can help. At the Strong Heart and Vascular Center, we perform a complete medical evaluation for each patient to determine the extent of your condition. After the evaluation, our surgeons develop an individualized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and restore blood flow to your legs.
The first step in the treatment of atherosclerosis includes medication and lifestyle modification, such as:
- Pain relievers
- Blood thinners
- Dilators
- Diet
- Exercise
- Weight loss
- Smoking cessation
Surgical Treatment of Atherosclerosis
Typically surgery would only be performed in severe cases. Because atherosclerosis can lead to Peripheral Arterial Disease and Critical Limb Ischemia, the type of surgery we recommend depends on your diagnosis and condition.
Surgical treatment options include:
- Endarterectomy (removing the plaque from the lining of the artery)
- Bypass surgery with a leg vein or manufactured graft
Our surgeons who treat atherosclerosis
Contact Us
New & Existing Patients
If you’d like to schedule an appointment, call us at 585-341-7030.
Referring Physicians
To refer a patient for a consultation, call us at 585-341-7030.