Which arteries are initially incised during a carotid endarterectomy?

During a carotid endarterectomy, the primary focus is on addressing the blockage in the carotid arteries, which are vital for supplying blood to the brain. The correct answer indicates that the common carotid artery is initially incised. This artery is a major vessel in the neck, and its exposure allows the surgeon to access the proximal segment for the procedure effectively.

The common carotid artery bifurcates into the internal and external carotid arteries. Incising this artery provides the necessary access to remove plaque buildup that may be causing stenosis, thereby improving blood flow. The surgical approach typically involves clamping the common carotid artery briefly to manage blood flow while the procedure is performed.

In contrast, the other choices pertain to structures that do not directly involve the initial incision during the procedure. The common femoral artery is located in the groin and is not involved in carotid surgery. The external carotid artery, while important for supplying blood to the neck and face, is not the artery that is initially accessed; rather, it is usually dealt with later if necessary. The internal jugular vein is a major venous structure that drains blood from the head and neck, and it is not incised as part of a carotid end