The term that means "the surgical removal of a clot or blockage from the inside of the carotid artery, most commonly performed to avoid stroke" is carotid endarterectomy.
Here's why:
1. Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove plaque or blockages from the carotid arteries, which are located in the neck and are major blood vessels that supply blood to the brain.
2. This procedure is often performed to reduce the risk of stroke by improving blood flow to the brain and reducing the likelihood of a blockage breaking off and causing a stroke.
3. During a carotid endarterectomy, a surgeon makes an incision in the neck, accesses the carotid artery, removes the plaque or blockage, and then closes the incision.
4. This procedure is considered a common and effective treatment for carotid artery disease and is typically recommended for patients with significant blockages in the carotid arteries to prevent stroke.
In summary, carotid endarterectomy is the term used for the surgical procedure of removing blockages from the carotid arteries to prevent strokes.