Carotid Endarterectomy Using Regional Anesthesia: Technique and Considerations

Overview

Journal Front Surg

Specialty General Surgery

Date 2024 Jun 21

PMID 38903863

Authors

Varun Padmanaban

Catherine Caldwell

Indigo Milne

Sprague W Hazard

Robert E Harbaugh

Ephraim W Church

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is one of the most effective operations in minimizing stroke risk in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with carotid stenosis in the United States. Awake CEA with regional anesthesia may decrease both perioperative complications and length of hospital stay. Techniques of performing awake CEA is not often described in published literature.

Objective: To describe our experience with CEA using regional anesthesia with a focus on patient selection, anatomic variations, and surgical technique including cervical regional block. We particularly focus on nuances of the awake approach.

Methods: CEA using regional anesthesia is described in detail.

Results: Successful use of regional anesthesia during CEA without complication.

Conclusion: Regional anesthesia for CEA is an advantageous approach for cervical plaque removal in appropriate patients. Thoughtful patient selection, as well as understanding of anatomy and its variants, is required. Potential advantages and disadvantages are discussed.

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