Carotid Endarterectomy

Abstract
• Ninety-six consecutive carotid endarterectomies were carried out with each patient under regional anesthesia and with the routine use of an indwelling arterial shunt. When combined on a routine basis, the theoretical advantages derived from each technique become additive such that maximal cerebral protection afforded by the shunt is continuously monitored by an awake patient. The validity of this approach in a teaching setting is evidenced by a low (1%) mortality and morbidity and by an exceptional degree of patient compliance. (Arch Surg 115:940-942, 1980)