Results of carotid endarterectomy in patients after previous stroke

Abstract

To determine the most optimal period of surgical treatment after previous stroke. There were 186 patients with significant ICA stenosis and previous unilateral stroke for the period 2008-2014 at the Pletnev Hospital (Moscow). Surgical approach was used in 136 (73.1%) patients (group I), conservative treatment at the neurological department - in 50 (26.9%) patients (group II). We analyzed neurological and cognitive status in both groups, regression of symptoms depending on the period after stroke, early and long-term postoperative outcomes. In early postoperative period, 7 (5.1%) cerebral ischemic events (transient ischemic attack (TIA) and stroke) occurred in the 1st group. No correlation of neurological complications and type of intervention was revealed. In long-term period, stroke occurred in 3.6% in the first group and in 14% in the second group over the same period. Surgical treatment was followed by more complete recovery of neurological functions (NIHSS score 6.2±0.5 versus 7.0±0.8; modified Rankin score 1.5±0.2 versus 2.1±0.5, p<0.05) and cognitive mechanisms (MoCA score 22.04±1.48 versus 20.04±1.48, p<0.05). Carotid endarterectomy and carotid artery stenting are effective for prevention of recurrent stroke. Carotid artery repair accelerates recovery of cognitive functions and regression of neurological symptoms in these patients.