Carotid endarterectomy consists of the excision or removal of the atheroma plaque generated in the arteries, in the carotid bifurcation, as another manifestation of arteriopathy obliterans due to arteriosclerosis. The technique itself involves an approach to the carotid arterial axis at the neck level, which can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the surgical team performing the procedure.
In which cases is carotid endarterectomy indicated?
Carotid endarterectomy is indicated in those situations in which the patient has suffered a transient ischemic stroke originating in an extracranial arterial vessel. Generally, it is usually an atheroma plaque in the carotid-internal carotid bifurcation that is more than 75% stenotic.
Objective of the carotid endarterectomy procedure
The aim of carotid endarterectomy is prophylactic, that is, to try to avoid a new ischemic stroke, with the surgical procedure to be performed being the excision of the atheromatous plaque (endarterectomy). In this way, the embolic and/or stenosing source of cerebral arterial flow is eliminated. However, for the surgery to be effective, it should not be delayed in time after the ischemic event, so it is recommended to perform it in the following 15 to 20 days. It is an intervention that is performed in a time of between 45 and 75 minutes, provided that it is performed in expert hands by specialists in Angiology and Vascular Surgery.
What does the postoperative period for carotid endarterectomy consist of?
The postoperative treatment, in addition to local wound dressings, consists of a post-surgery medical treatment based on ASA (Acetylsalicylic Acid) 100mg and/or Clopidogrel.