What are the Possible Complications of Carotid Endarterectomy?
• Complications may happen as with any surgery. The major complication from this surgery is stroke (1 to 3% in patients with no symptoms pre surgery, and 3 to 5% for patients with symptoms before surgery). • Another rare but major complication is bleeding into the neck wound, for which the patient may have to return to the operating room. Other possible problems include swelling in the neck, numbness and/or infection around the incision. • It is important to remember that each persons circumstances and medical history are different. One of our surgeons will discuss your options with you and make recommendations as to what course of action will be most beneficial to you.