Candidates for an endarterectomy with Dr. Zakhary generally have worked through lifestyle changes and medication to try and clear their arteries at least to the degree of keeping them from becoming blocked. But when the blockage is advanced or if the patient has already had a transient ischemic attack, they are prime candidates for carotid endarterectomy. This surgery will remove plaque that is clogging the artery and restore full blood flow to the brain.