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Risk of Stroke During or After an Endarterectomy

The very procedure utilized to reduce the risk of stroke, a carotid endarterectomy, also carries the risk of inducing that same "brain attack." But, the likelihood is minimal, with the benefit of the operation seemingly outweighing any concern.

  1. Significance

    • Carotid artery disease is a condition where arteries in the neck have become clogged. This is caused by atherosclerosis, also called "hardening of the arteries." Blood flow and oxygen to the brain is reduced, potentially leading to stroke.

    Surgery

    • A carotid endarterectomy is frequently utilized to clear this blockage. An incision is made in the neck, and the diseased layers of the artery are removed. This allows blood to once again flow freely to the brain.

    Risk

    • "The risk of a subsequent stroke is about 1% per year," says Dr. Jonothan Earnshaw, a vascular surgeon with Gloucestershire Royal Hospital in the United Kingdom.

      The Department of Surgery at The Baylor College of Medicine indicates a slightly higher risk of stroke during or after an endarterectomy, ranging from 1% to 3%.

    Warning

    • The first 24 hours after surgery is the most critical time during recovery. Nearly 5% of patients will develop a potentially fatal complication during this period.

    Considerations

    • A carotid endarterectomy reduces the possibility of stroke but cannot stop atherosclerosis from reoccurring. An exercise regimen, healthy diet plan and avoidance of tobacco smoke are crucial in this effort.

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