This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS
Effect of carotid endarterectomy on cognitive function: long‐term follow‐up. BJS 2000; 87: 509-509.
Published: 6th December 2002
Authors: A. J. Lloyd, P. D. Hayes, A. R. Naylor, P. R. F. Bell
Background
Long‐term effects of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) on cognitive function are not known. Evidence suggests that perioperative embolization may disrupt cognitive function in the short term.
Method
A controlled study was conducted to examine the cognitive function of 109 patients undergoing CEA before and at 6 months after operation (n = 100). The objective validated psychometric tests assessed attention, memory, language and visuospatial skills. Perioperative embolization was determined using transcranial Doppler ultrasonography.
Results
Patients who were spontaneously embolizing before operation had significant preoperative cognitive impairment (P = 0·03). The controlled cognitive function tests showed no evidence of a cognitive deficit 6 months after CEA. The total number of emboli detected for each patient ranged from 0 to 700 (mean 32). There was no evidence of a significant correlation between the number of emboli detected during CEA and change in cognitive function (r = 0·07).
Conclusion
CEA is not associated with worsening cognitive impairment. Asymptomatic perioperative microembolization has no long‐term effect on cognitive function. © 2000 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd
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