My father is 61 years old and recently lost the vision in one of his eyes. After many doctor appointments, we discovered the arteries supplying blood to his face are 100% blocked. This was discovered by an angiogram. The thought is that some plaque broke loose and went to the eye. They do not think he'll get his eyesight back.
According to the nurse, they will not operate on these blockages because of the risks. She said he must have developed "collateral blood supply" I take it that it means he is still getting some blood to his face. She also told us that the artery in the back of his neck is clear and he HAS to stop smoking.
Also, he has a 100% blockage in the artery near his clavical, reducing the blood supply to his left arm. He is undergoing an angioplasty in two days to try and correct it.
What does all of this mean for his future? Is he still at a risk for a stroke even if the arteries are completely blocked? Is he in grave condition, with his future uncertain?
What does all of this mean in relation to his future and what health problems he may face? Should they risk surgery because both carotid arteries are blocked?
Thank you for whatever information you may have.