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Initial experience with routine selective carotid arteriography by vascular surgeons.
Joe H Morgan1, Joe H Johnson, Randall B Brown
1Macon Cardiovascular Institute, Georgia 31201, USA.
The American Surgeon
|August 18, 2006
Summary
Routine carotid angiography is a safe and low-risk procedure for vascular surgeons. This study found a low complication rate, with no deaths, supporting its use in diagnosing cerebrovascular conditions.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Interventional Radiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Carotid angiography is a key diagnostic tool for cerebrovascular diseases.
- Assessing the safety and efficacy of routine carotid angiography is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the technique and complication rates of routine carotid angiography over a two-year period.
- To determine the safety profile of carotid angiography performed by vascular surgeons.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 336 patients undergoing cerebrovascular arteriograms.
- Data collection on indications, complications, and technical aspects of selective catheterizations.
- Analysis of reasons for not catheterizing both common carotid arteries.
Main Results:
- Carotid stenosis was the primary indication (95%).
- No procedure-related deaths occurred; overall complication rate was 1.8%, including one cerebrovascular accident (0.3%).
- Selective carotid catheterization was successful in most cases, with specific reasons for non-selection noted.
Conclusions:
- Routine selective carotid angiography is a low-risk procedure.
- Vascular surgeons with appropriate skills can perform carotid angiography safely.
- The findings support the continued use of carotid angiography in diagnosing cerebrovascular conditions.