Surgical Treatment of Patients with Bilateral Atherosclerotic Lesions of Carotid Arteries

Abstract

The objective of study was to improve the results of surgical treatment of patients with bilateral atherosclerotic lesions of the carotid arteries. Material and Methods: The study included 180 patients between the ages of 42 and 82 (mean age 59±5.6 yrs) who underwent surgical treatment for bilateral atherosclerotic lesions of the carotid arteries during 2008-2014. Depending on the surgical treatment tactic, a total of 180 patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 included 60 (33.3%) patients who underwent staged bilateral carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Group 2 included 120 (66.7%) patients, in whom the first stage of CEA was performed on the side of primary importance. Results: The differentiated approach for identification the side for the first stage CEA is very important. Our experience shows that the intervals between CEA on both sides should not exceed 3 months and should be no less than 3 weeks. This tactic reduces not only mortality and complications, but also significantly improves the patient life quality by promoting rapid regression of neurological deficit.

Keywords

• bilateral atherosclerotic lesions;
• carotid arteries;
• staged bilateral carotid endarterectomy.