Prevention, Identification, and Management of Perioperative Complications of Carotid Endarterectomy

ABSTRACT

Complications from carotid endarterectomy are rare but potentially devastating. The current indications for the operation require a low operative morbidity and mortality. Potential morbidities from carotid endarterectomy include neurological complications (cranial and peripheral nerve injuries, cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome, stroke) and nonneurological complications (neck hematoma/airway obstruction, hypertension, hypotension, cardiac events). Identification of patients at risk for each of these complications allows for preoperative risk reduction and selectively heightened perioperative monitoring. Knowledge of the relevant anatomy and pathophysiology of these complications leads to implementation of appropriate management strategies to minimize their sequelae.

KEYWORDS

Carotid endarterectomy - complications - stroke

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