Transposition of internal carotid artery over hypoglossal nerve in eversion carotid endarterectomy

Abstract

To analyze in-hospital and long-term results of eversion carotid endarterectomy (CEE) with transposition of internal carotid artery (ICA) over hypoglossal nerve. A cohort prospective open-label study included 919 patients with severe ICA stenosis for the period from January 2017 to April 2020. The 1st group (n=172) included patients who underwent eversion CEE with ICA transposition over hypoglossal nerve; the 2nd group (n=747) - who underwent conventional eversion CEE. ICA transposition technique included standard mobilization of the carotid arteries, cross-clamping, arterial wall incision, removal of atherosclerotic plaque and ICA translocation above the hypoglossal nerve for subsequent anastomosis. All patients were examined every 6 months. Mean follow-up period was 17.5±6.9 months. There were no significant between-group differences in cardiovascular morbidity. However, all complications occurred in the 2nd group (traditional eversion CEE). Nevertheless, incidence of adverse events was minimal and combined endpoint did not exceed 0.6% (n=5). Both groups were also comparable by overall incidence of cardiovascular events in long-term period. All ICA restenoses (over 70%) were symptomatic with similar incidence (4 (2.3%) vs. 18 (2.4%), respectively, p=0.83; OR 0.96; 95% CI 0.32-2.88). Mean restenosis-free period was 7.2±2.6 months. In case of significant restenosis, redo CEE with patch repair was performed. There were no cardiovascular complications. All cases of hypoglossal nerve injury occurred in the 2nd group (0 vs. 18 (100%), respectively; p=0.0001; OR 0.003; 95% CI=5.21-0.17) without ICA transposition over the hypoglossal nerve. Eversion CEE with ICA transposition over the hypoglossal nerve ensures optimal conditions for successful redo CEE in case of restenosis. This technique facilitates ICA mobilization without hypoglossal nerve injury. This aspect is valuable for successful postoperative outcome and adequate quality of life. ICA transposition is not difficult and does not require additional experience. Transposition per se is not a risk factor of ICA restenosis. Thus, ICA transposition may be routinely recommended in patients eligible for eversion CEE.