Carotid Endarterectomy

​What are the benefits, risks and limitations?

Benefits

• For suitable patients, CEA is more effective than medical management in reducing risk of stroke

Risks

• Stroke occurs in 2-3% of patients with no pre-procedure symptoms; in 5-7% of patients with pre-procedure
  symptoms such as a mini-stroke
• A heart attack may occur during the procedure; a detailed pre-surgery heart evaluation is required
• Blood clot at the wound
• Wound infection
• Nerve impairment, affecting voice and tongue control

Limitations

• Does not improve the outcome of a severe stroke if it is pre-existing
• Post surgery, the fatty deposits (plaque) can return if the same conditions that caused it are present. Lifestyle
  and diet changes like keeping one's blood pressure and cholesterol under control are important
• If surgery is not suitable or extremely high risks are involved, other options like carotid angioplasty and
  stenting (insertion of a metal mesh tube into the vessels to prevent narrowing) may be considered

Download the Carotid Endarterectomy brochure