⚠️Experiencing stroke symptoms? Call 911 immediately. Symptoms include sudden numbness, difficulty speaking, vision changes, or severe headache.
Carotid Artery Disease
Treatment in
Stockton, CA
Expert carotid stenosis evaluation and treatment, including carotid endarterectomy and TCAR — to reduce your stroke risk. Serving the Central Valley.
Overview
Protecting Your Brain Health Starts with Your Carotid Arteries
Carotid artery disease is one of the leading causes of stroke in the United States — and one of the most preventable. At Aria Vascular, our board-certified vascular surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating carotid artery disease for patients throughout Stockton and the Central Valley.
From non-invasive carotid ultrasound screening to advanced carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR), we provide the full spectrum of carotid care under one roof — helping you reduce your stroke risk without traveling to Sacramento or the Bay Area.
As the only comprehensive, multidisciplinary vascular center in San Joaquin County, Aria Vascular gives Central Valley patients access to the same caliber of care found at major academic medical centers.
Understanding the Condition
What Is Carotid Artery Disease?
The carotid arteries are the two large blood vessels on either side of your neck that supply blood to your brain. Carotid artery disease occurs when these arteries become narrowed by plaque — a buildup of cholesterol, calcium, and fatty substances — in a process called atherosclerosis.
From non-invasive carotid ultrasound screening to advanced carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR), we provide the full spectrum of carotid care under one roof — helping you reduce your stroke risk without traveling to Sacramento or the Bay Area.
Risk Factors for Carotid Artery Disease
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Diabetes
Smoking history
Heart disease
Family history of stroke
Age over 65
Obesity or sedentary lifestyle
⚠ Warning Signs of Stroke or TIA — Act Immediately
- Sudden numbness or weakness in face, arm, or leg
- Sudden confusion or difficulty speaking
- Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
- Sudden dizziness or loss of balance
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
- Difficulty understanding others
If you experience any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. A TIA is a medical emergency and a serious warning of a future stroke.
Early Detection
How Carotid Artery Disease Is Diagnosed
At Aria Vascular, we use advanced, non-invasive imaging to evaluate your carotid arteries and determine the degree of stenosis. Early detection is key — the majority of strokes caused by carotid disease are preventable with timely intervention.
Carotid Ultrasound (Duplex Scan)
The primary screening tool for carotid disease. Uses sound waves to image the arteries and measure blood flow velocity. Painless, non-invasive, and available in our Stockton office — with results reviewed same day.
CT Angiography (CTA) & MR Angiography (MRA)
For patients with significant stenosis on ultrasound, CTA or MRA provides detailed 3D images of the carotid arteries to plan the most appropriate treatment approach.
Treatment Options
Carotid Artery Disease Treatments at Aria Vascular
The appropriate treatment depends on the degree of stenosis, your symptoms, and your overall health. Aria Vascular offers all options — from medical management to advanced surgery.
Medical Management
For mild to moderate stenosis without symptoms, medical management includes antiplatelet medications, statins, blood pressure control, and lifestyle changes. Our team coordinates closely with your primary care physician and neurologist for a comprehensive care plan.
Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA)
The established surgical approach for significant carotid stenosis. Our vascular surgeon makes a small neck incision to directly remove plaque from inside the carotid artery. CEA is recommended for patients with 70%+ stenosis or symptomatic disease and has decades of proven safety and effectiveness. Most patients go home in 1–2 days.
Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR)
A newer, minimally invasive option for patients at higher surgical risk for traditional CEA. Through a small incision below the collarbone, the surgeon temporarily reverses blood flow away from the brain — dramatically reducing stroke risk during the procedure — while placing a stent to hold the artery open. Many patients go home same-day or after one night.
CEA vs. TCAR — At a Glance
| Factor | Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA) | TCAR |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Open surgical | Minimally invasive |
| Incision Location | Neck | Below collarbone |
| Best Candidate | Standard surgical risk | High surgical risk patients |
| Anesthesia | General or regional | Local with sedation |
| Hospital Stay | Typically 1–2 days | Often same-day or 1 night |
| Track Record | Decades of proven outcomes | Newer, growing evidence base |
Our Advantage
Why Stockton Patients Trust Aria Vascular for Carotid Care
| What Matters | The Aria Vascular Advantage |
|---|---|
| Both CEA & TCAR available | Our surgeons perform both procedures — you get the right one for your anatomy and risk profile, not a one-size-fits-all approach |
| In-office carotid ultrasound | Fast, convenient screening without additional referrals or separate facility visits |
| Multidisciplinary coordination | We work directly with your neurologist, cardiologist, and primary care team for integrated stroke prevention care |
| Only comprehensive vascular center in San Joaquin County | Expert carotid care available locally — no need to travel to Sacramento or the Bay Area |
| Full Central Valley coverage | Patients from Modesto, Lodi, Tracy, Manteca, and surrounding areas receive the same high-level vascular care |
Your Care Journey
What to Expect at Aria Vascular
We understand that dialysis patients are already managing complex schedules and health demands. Our goal is to make every visit as efficient and stress-free as possible.
Initial Consultation
A thorough review of your medical history, risk factors, and prior imaging. If not already done, we may order a carotid duplex ultrasound. Your surgeon will review results with you in plain language and recommend observation, medical management, or intervention.
Pre-Procedure Planning
If surgery is recommended, we coordinate pre-operative clearances with your primary care physician and specialists. Our team provides detailed pre-procedure instructions and answers every question before your procedure date.
Procedure & Recovery
CEA patients are typically discharged within 1–2 days and return to normal activities in 2–4 weeks. TCAR patients often go home same-day or after one night. Our team provides close post-operative monitoring for optimal healing and stroke prevention outcomes.
Serving the Central Valley
Carotid Artery Care Near You
Aria Vascular serves patients throughout San Joaquin County and the broader Central Valley. We accept referrals from primary care physicians, neurologists, and cardiologists region-wide. To refer a patient, call (209) 226-4300.
Stockton
Modesto
Lodi
Tracy
Manteca
Turlock
Merced
Elk Grove
San Joaquin County
Common Questions
Carotid Artery Disease FAQs
What percentage of carotid stenosis requires surgery?
Surgery is generally recommended for patients with 70% or greater stenosis, particularly with symptoms such as a TIA or stroke. For asymptomatic patients with 60–99% stenosis, decisions are made individually. Your Aria Vascular surgeon will review your specific case and make a personalized recommendation.
How do I know if I have carotid artery disease?
Many people have no symptoms until a stroke or TIA occurs. Screening is recommended if you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or smoking history. A carotid ultrasound is a quick, painless way to evaluate your arteries. Call Aria Vascular at (209) 226-4300 to schedule a screening.
Is carotid endarterectomy a major surgery?
CEA is a well-established procedure with decades of safety data. Most patients tolerate it well and go home within 1–2 days. For patients at higher surgical risk, TCAR may be a safer alternative. Your Aria Vascular surgeon will discuss all risks and options thoroughly before any procedure.
What is the difference between a stroke and a TIA?
A TIA (transient ischemic attack) causes stroke-like symptoms that resolve within minutes to hours without permanent damage. However, a TIA is a serious warning sign of a future full stroke. If you have experienced a TIA, seek evaluation immediately — carotid artery disease is a common underlying cause.
Does Aria Vascular accept Medicare for carotid procedures?
Yes. Aria Vascular accepts Medicare and most major insurance plans. Carotid endarterectomy and TCAR are covered procedures for qualifying patients. Please call (209) 226-4300 to verify your specific coverage prior to your appointment.
Schedule a Carotid Evaluation
Don’t wait for a stroke. Early screening and treatment can protect your brain health.
Practice Information
Address
1611 W March Lane Stockton, CA 95207
Hours
Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sat–Sun: Closed
Phone
(209) 226-4300
Fax
(209) 227-1477
Protect Your Brain. Schedule a Carotid Evaluation Today.
Aria Vascular is Stockton’s trusted vascular surgery center for carotid artery disease. Don’t wait for a stroke to take action — early detection and treatment save lives.