[The value of color-coded duplex ultrasound in the immediate postoperative phase of carotid artery reconstruction].

Diagnostic value of color-coded duplex sonography within the first hours following carotid artery reconstruction was investigated. We examined 15 out of 290 patients who developed neurologic symptoms after carotid endarterectomy. During the early postoperative period color-coded duplex sonography was associated with some problems. The investigation at this time was characterized by poor quality of B mode and color Doppler. It may be caused by deposition of air or bleeding. Differentiation of internal and external carotid arteries was difficult. When Doppler sonography of the reconstructed carotid artery was additionally performed, more accurate information was obtained. A normal reconstructed internal carotid artery was found in 8 patients, whereas 5 patients showed pathologic results (3 stenoses, 1 total occlusion, 1 embolisation). In patients with pathologic changes reoperation was immediately performed. Results of ultrasound investigations were proved by intraoperative findings. In 2 patients examination of the reconstructed internal carotid artery was impossible even by the combination of duplex and Doppler sonography. We conclude that color-coded duplex sonography in combination with Doppler sonography is a valuable method for investigations in the early postoperative period following carotid artery reconstruction.