Carotid endarterectomy
Recovering from carotid endarterectomy
After a carotid endarterectomy, you'll usually be moved to the recovery area of the operating theatre or, in some cases,a high dependency unit (HDU).
An HDU is a specialist unit for people who need to be kept under close observation after surgery, usually because they have high blood pressure and need to be closely monitored.
Aftersurgery, your breathing and heart ratewill bemonitored to ensure you're recovering well.
You may havesomediscomfortin your neck aroundwhere theincision was made. This can usually be controlled with painkillers. You may also experience numbness around the wound, which should disappear after a while.
Most people are able to eat and drink a few hours after having surgery. You'll usually beable to leave hospital and return home within 48 hours.
Wound care
The wound on your neck will be closed with stitches, which may need to be removed at a later date.Your surgeon will be able to advise you about this. Sometimes dissolvable stitches or skin glue are used instead.
Your surgeon will also be able to give you advice aboutcaring for your wound. This will usually be a simple matter of keeping it clean using mild soap and warm water.
You may be left with a small scar running from the angle of your jaw to the top of your breastbone.The scaris usually about 7-10cm (2.5-4 inches) long and fades to a fine line aftertwoor threemonths.
Driving
Your GP will be able to advise you about when it's safe to drive after surgeryusuallywhen you can safely carry out an emergency stop. For most people, thisis between two to three weeks after the operation.
If you've had a stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) , youwon't be allowed to drive for a month afterwards. If you've fully recovered, you don't need to inform theDVLA unless you drive a lorry or a bus for a living.
Work and exercise
Most people are able to return to workthree tofour weeks after having a carotidendarterectomy. Your surgeon or GP will be able to advise you further about returning to work.
You may be advised to limit physical activity for a few weeks after having surgery. This includes manual labour andplaying sports. If your job involves manual labour, you should only perform light duties until you'vefully recovered.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 28 Nov 2016
Introduction
A carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure to unblock a carotid artery. The carotid arteries are the main blood vessels that supply the head and neck.
When carotid endarterectomy is needed
A carotid endarterectomy may be needed if one or both of your carotid arteries becomes narrowed by a build-up of fatty deposits (plaque).
Getting ready for a carotid endarterectomy
Before having a carotid endarterectomy, you'll attend a pre-admission clinic where you'll have a physical examination and be asked about your medical history.
How carotid endarterectomy is performed
A carotid endarterectomy will either be carried out under general or local anaesthesia.
Recovering from carotid endarterectomy
After a carotid endarterectomy, you will usually be moved to the recovery area of the operating theatre or, in some cases, a high dependency unit (HDU).
Risks of carotid endarterectomy
As with all types of surgery, there are some risks associated with having a carotid endarterectomy.
Alternatives to carotid endarterectomy
A carotid endarterectomy is the main treatment for narrowed carotid arteries. However, an alternative procedure called carotid artery stent placement can also be used.
Patient story: "I'm able to walk again."
Mr Joseph Leverment, from Cropston, Leicester, had a carotid endarterectomy while he was a senior surgeon at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust.
Subscribe
Ask the doctor
Rate this article
Find products