Carotid microendarterectomy

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Neurosurgery
• Microsurgery

Background:

• Carotid artery stenosis poses a significant risk of stroke.
• Traditional endarterectomy techniques can be limited by plaque complexity and visualization.
• The operating microscope offers enhanced visualization and precision for cerebrovascular procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of carotid microendarterectomy using an operating microscope.
• To assess the impact of microsurgical techniques on patient outcomes in carotid stenosis surgery.

Main Methods:

• A consecutive series of 60 patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis underwent carotid microendarterectomy.
• The procedure utilized an operating microscope for enhanced visualization and precision.
• High dissection of the internal carotid artery facilitated plaque exposure and removal.

Main Results:

• No deaths occurred in the series of 60 patients.
• Only one postoperative stroke was reported, attributed to operative site occlusion, which was successfully treated.
• Carotid patency was confirmed in all patients post-surgery (angiography or Doppler examination).

Conclusions:

• Carotid microendarterectomy with an operating microscope allows for accurate plaque removal and precise arterial repair.
• This microsurgical approach minimizes risks associated with surgical technique, contributing to favorable patient outcomes.
• The technique demonstrates a low complication rate, including a reduced risk of postoperative stroke.