What Is the Recovery Time After Carotid Artery Surgery?

The recovery time after carotid artery surgery varies between patients. The patient may have to stay in the hospital a day after the procedure for monitoring to ensure there are no risk factors for a stroke, such as reduced blood flow and bleeding, according to Healthline.

After carotid artery surgery, patients are taken to the recovery room, where conditions such as blood pressure, pulse and heart rate are monitored. Patients also receive antiplatelet medications, such as aspirin, to prevent a stroke and minimize the risk of blood clots, note Healthline and WebMD. Patients are encouraged to make lifestyle changes such as increasing activity, eating healthy and stopping smoking after carotid artery surgery, says WebMD.