Carotid endarterectomy of symptomatic carotid artery stenosis: a report of 82 cases

Objective To review the experience and early clinical results of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in the treatment of patients with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis. Methods CEA was performed in 82 consecutive patients (66 male, 16 female), and their aged 48 to 84 years (mean 68.6 years). Carotid stenosis were detected in all cases by carotid artery Doppler ultrasonography and DSA. General anesthesia was adopted in 39 cases and regional anesthesia in 43 cases. Temporary intraluminal shunts were applied in 56 patients. Results After CEA, the chronic symptoms of cerebral ischemia were obviously improved in 65 cases, and moderately improved in 14 cases; serious postoperative complications were observed in 3 patients, including 2 cerebral ischemia and 1 carotid artery thrombosis. Conclusions CEA is an effective method to treat the symptomatic carotid artery stenosis.