The siphon carotid artery is a section of the internal carotid artery (ICA) that runs through a bony canal in the base of the skull called the carotid canal. It is characterized by its S-shaped curve and is responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the brain. The siphon is a common site for the formation…

Internal carotid artery occlusion (ICAO) is a condition in which the internal carotid artery, which supplies blood to the brain, becomes blocked. ICAO can cause a stroke if the clot blocks blood flow to the brain. Symptoms of ICAO may include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding…

Life expectancy after carotid endarterectomy is influenced by patient factors (stenosis severity, risk factors, age, health), procedural factors (surgical complications, recovery quality), postoperative care (adherence, rehabilitation, healthcare expertise), and other factors (medical access, continuity of care, research, clinical trials). Optimizing outcomes requires addressing patient and procedural factors, ensuring adherence to postoperative care, and promoting access…

Tortuosity of the carotid artery refers to an abnormal bending or twisting of the carotid artery, which supplies blood to the brain. It can be caused by various factors, including aging, hypertension, and atherosclerosis. Tortuosity can lead to increased arterial resistance, reduced blood flow to the brain, and an increased risk of stroke. Imaging techniques…

Bifurcation of the carotid artery refers to the division of the common carotid artery into the internal and external carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain and face, respectively. This occurs at the level of the fourth cervical vertebra and is affected by the location of the carotid sinus, a baroreceptor that helps regulate…

Carotid bypass graft involves surgically bypassing a blockage in the carotid artery, a major blood vessel supplying blood to the brain. During the procedure, a new graft (typically a synthetic tube or a vein) is connected above and below the blockage to restore blood flow to the brain. This surgery aims to prevent or treat…

Carotid artery ligation is a surgical procedure involving the intentional occlusion of the carotid artery, typically performed to treat life-threatening conditions such as uncontrolled bleeding or carotid artery rupture. During the procedure, the common, internal, or external branches of the carotid artery may be targeted based on the location of the pathology. The ligation involves…

Carotid artery MRI is an imaging technique that utilizes magnetic resonance to create detailed cross-sectional images of the carotid arteries in the neck. This non-invasive procedure allows physicians to visualize the arteries and detect abnormalities such as stenosis (narrowing), plaque buildup, dissection (tearing), and aneurysms (widening). MRI provides high-resolution images that can accurately identify the…

The carotid canal is a passageway in the temporal bone that transmits the internal carotid artery, internal jugular vein, and a sympathetic chain. It is approximately 20 mm long and is located within the petrous part of the temporal bone, extending from the carotid foramen to the jugular foramen. The carotid sheath, which contains the…

Carotid ultrasound results provide detailed information about the anatomical structures and physiological processes of the carotid arteries. These arteries supply blood to the brain and are located on either side of the neck. The ultrasound examines their size, blood flow, and the presence of any abnormalities, such as plaques or stenosis. By assessing these parameters,…

MRA of carotid refers to magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) of the carotid arteries, which are the main arteries supplying blood to the brain. MRA uses a combination of strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the carotid arteries, allowing physicians to assess their anatomy, identify any abnormalities such as narrowing or…

Carotid calcification panoramic radiographs are a non-invasive imaging technique that allows for the visualization of calcified carotid artery plaques using panoramic dental X-ray equipment. These plaques are a buildup of calcium and other materials that can narrow or block the carotid arteries, reducing blood flow to the brain. By detecting early calcified plaques, panoramic radiographs…