Regional anesthesia in elderly patients undergoing carotid surgery: Report of a case series

Abstract

Background: This study evaluates the short-term results in patients more than 75 years of age undergoing carotid endarterectomy at a single institution. Methods: Between June 2004 and June 2007, carotid endarterectomy operations were performed in 123 patients. A total of 70 patients had regional anesthesia. The data for all patients were retrospectively reviewed. Regional anesthesia and selective shunting was performed in all patients. Results: In 6 patients, a shunt was required. Primary closure of the carotid artery was performed in 22 patients and patch angioplasty was used in the remainder. There were no postoperative neurological complications. One patient died due to myocardial infarction. Conclusions: Carotid endarterectomy with regional anesthesia can be performed safely in the elderly population with low mortality and morbidity. Regional anesthesia may have advantages over general anesthesia and could potentially aid in avoiding complications related to shunt use. © 2008 Sage Publications.