Treatment strategy for combined carotid artery stenosis and coronary artery disease: staged or simultaneous surgical procedure?

Simultaneous coronary artery bypass grafting and carotid endarterectomy can be performed with low mortality rates

Introduction

There is controversy over the best approach for patients with concomitant carotid and coronary artery disease. In this study, we report on our experience with simultaneous carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery in our clinic in the light of data in the literature.

Methods

Between January 1996 and January 2009, a total of 110 patients (86 males, 24 females; mean age 65.11 ± 7.81 years; range 44–85 years), who were admitted to the cardiovascular surgery clinic at our hospital, were retrospectively analysed. All patients underwent simultaneous CEA and CABG. Demographic characteristics of the patients and a history of previous myocardial infarction (MI), hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia, peripheral arterial disease and smoking were recorded.

Results

One patient (0.9%) with major stroke died due to ventricular fibrillation. Peri-operative neurological complications were observed in seven patients (6%). Complications were persistent in two patients. Four patients (3%) had postoperative major stroke, whereas three patients (2%) had transient hemiparesis. No peri-operative myocardial infarction was observed.

Conclusion

Simultaneous CEA and CABG can be performed with low rates of mortality and morbidity.

Simultaneous approach of internal carotid artery revascularization at the base of the skull and coronary arteries bypass without extracorporeal circulation

The best surgical approach for the treatment of patients with severe cerebral artery disease and simultaneous serious coronary artery disease remains controversial. In this report, we present a case of a 65-year-old man admitted to the hospital with unstable angina. Triple coronary artery obstructive disease and severe right internal carotid artery stenosis in the retroparotid region were diagnosed. A combined, simultaneous surgical procedure was performed. A lesion located in the retroparotid space required an approach by a presternocleidomastoid cervicotomy extended distally. Venous grafting of the internal carotid artery was performed. After carotid reconstruction, the three coronary arteries were revascularized without extracorporeal circulation. The patient showed a satisfactory postoperative outcome.