Carotid Endarterectomy

​How should I prepare for the procedure?

• You will be assessed by an anaesthetist to see if you are fit to undergo surgery. Routine blood, radiological
  investigations and an electrocardiography (ECG) used to measure heart activity, will be done
• You can continue your blood thinning medication. Your doctor will advise when you should stop taking the
  medication
• Do not smoke before surgery to reduce the risks of blood clotting and chest infection

What to expect during the procedure?

• The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia
• An incision is made at the side of the neck to reach the affected artery
• The artery is clamped to temporarily stop blood flow
• An incision is made on the narrowed blood vessel, and the plaque is removed. The clamps are removed to
  restore blood flow to the brain
• The vessel is sewed back. A shunt may be inserted to maintain blood flow to the brain during the process
• The wound will be closed with absorbable stitches. Medical tape will be placed above the stitches to promote healing
• The surgery usually lasts 3 to 4 hours

What happens after the procedure?

• The drain inserted during the surgery will be removed a day after
• Patients will be monitored overnight in a high dependency unit and discharged within 3 to 5 days following surgery. No removal of suture is generally expected
• Some pain may be expected near the wound at the neck; some may face difficulty swallowing during the first few days after surgery
• Engaging in light activities may help speed up recovery and prevent complications
• You will be asked to move your arms and legs and be examined by the medical team to make sure that no
  new stroke symptoms develop