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Published on: May 9, 2013
Cervical plexus block versus general anesthesia in carotid surgery: single center experience
Dejan Markovic1, Gordana Vlajkovic, Radomir Sindjelic
1Center for Anesthesia, Clinical Center of Serbia, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Serbia.
Archives of Medical Science : AMS
|January 16, 2013
Summary
Regional anesthesia (RA) and general anesthesia (GA) show similar outcomes for carotid endarterectomy mortality and morbidity. RA offers benefits like fewer respiratory complications and quicker oral intake post-surgery.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Vascular Surgery
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Carotid endarterectomy is a procedure to remove plaque from carotid arteries.
- Anesthesia choices include general anesthesia (GA) and regional anesthesia (RA).
- Evaluating anesthetic techniques' impact on perioperative outcomes is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the perioperative mortality and morbidity between GA and RA in carotid surgery patients.
- To assess the influence of anesthetic technique on patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 1098 patients undergoing carotid surgery from 2003-2009.
- Comparison between patients receiving cervical plexus block (RA) and general anesthesia (GA).
Main Results:
- No significant differences in mortality (GA 0.9% vs. RA 0.4%) or neurological complications (GA 2.1% vs. RA 1.1%).
- RA associated with significantly shorter operating and clamping times (p < 0.001 and p = 0.040, respectively).
- Fewer pulmonary complications observed with RA (0%) compared to GA (0.9%, p = 0.007).
Conclusions:
- Anesthetic technique does not significantly impact overall surgical outcomes for carotid disease.
- Regional anesthesia offers advantages including reduced respiratory complications and earlier oral intake.
- RA may be prioritized for its patient benefits and efficiency in carotid surgery.
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