A buildup of plaque in your carotid artery. Symptoms Transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke) Stroke Treatment Generally treated by lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, not smoking and increasing your physical activity; surgical interventions are also used. Possible procedures to clear the plaque include stenting procedures, revascularization of subclavian and innominate vessels in preparation for thoracic aneurysm endografting and other bypass procedures.