Durability of surgery for restenosis after carotid endarterectomy.

BACKGROUND

The role of carotid surgery for the management of restenosis after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is challenged by carotid artery stenting (CAS). We reviewed redo CEA in a consecutive series of patients to determine the safety, durability, and long-term benefit associated with repeat surgical treatment for restenosis.

METHODS

A consecutive series of 73 redo procedures in 72 patients (57% men) with a mean age 66 years (range, 49-81 years) was analyzed. The mean interval between prior CEA and redo CEA was 53 months (range, 8-192 months). Operative indications included symptomatic restenosis in 28 patients (38%). A patch angioplasty was performed in 62 patients (85%). The main outcome measures included perioperative and late stroke and death, and the development of secondary restenosis.

RESULTS

There were no perioperative deaths or strokes. During a mean follow-up of 52 months (range, 12-144 months), the Kaplan-Meier cumulative survival was 85% at 5 years. At 5 years, the cumulative rate of freedom from all strokes was 98%, and the freedom from ipsilateral stroke was 100%. After secondary procedures, re-recurrent stenosis > or =50% occurred in 10 patients (13.7%). The cumulative freedom from re-restenosis (> or =50%) was 85% at 5 years. Five patients (7%) received tertiary carotid reconstructions.

CONCLUSION

Repeat CEA for recurrent stenosis can be performed safely with excellent long-term protection from stroke. These data provide a standard against which the results of CAS can be compared.