Changing characteristics of carotid endarterectomy

We have noted significant differences in terms of our preoperative work-up, length of stay, morbidity, and mortality of patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy (CEA) from findings reported in large published randomized clinical trials. To further investigate these differences, we have reviewed our recent experience. CEA has proved to be the most effective approach to avert stokes caused by significant atherosclerotic disease of the carotid bifurcation. Between January 1, 1996 and December 31, 1998, 552 patients underwent CEA at our institution. Forty percent were performed in symptomatic patients with stenotic lesions > 60% in diameter by duplex ultrasonography. The remainder were performed for asymptomatic lesions > 60% in diameter. No patient underwent contrast angiography. Fifty-two percent of the patients were males. The mean age was 74 +/- 8 years old. General anesthesia was used in 97% of the cases and regional block, in 3%. All patients underwent routine postoperative measurement of serum creatinine phosphokinase (CPK) isoenzymes. Patients were discharged when deemed clinically stable. The patients' follow-up visits at 1 week and at 3-5 months after the procedure (mean, 3.4 months) included a neurological exam and duplex exam. Patient results suggest that CEAs can be performed in the modern era without contrast arteriography. Most patients can be discharged on the first postoperative day. In addition, previously acceptable rates of postoperative morbidity and mortality should perhaps be revised to meet current standards. Contrary to the previous concept that most postoperative strokes are due to embolic phenomena, hyperperfusion syndrome played an increasingly important role in this review.