Name of the Procedure:

Repair blood vessel, direct; neck

Summary

This surgical procedure involves repairing a damaged or blocked blood vessel in the neck region. The surgeon directly accesses and repairs the blood vessel to restore proper blood flow.

Purpose

The procedure addresses conditions such as aneurysms, blockages, or injuries to the blood vessels in the neck. The goal is to restore normal blood circulation, prevent stroke, and reduce symptoms such as pain or dizziness.

Indications

• Symptoms of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• Severe neck trauma causing vascular injury
• Diagnosed aneurysm or arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in neck blood vessels
• Significant stenosis (narrowing) of the carotid artery

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for 8-12 hours prior to the procedure.
• Certain medications, particularly blood thinners, may need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued.
• Preoperative imaging studies like CT angiography or Doppler ultrasound are often required to assess the blood vessel condition.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the neck to expose the damaged blood vessel.
3. The surgeon directly accesses and repairs the vessel using sutures, grafts, or other means appropriate to the specific injury.
4. Blood flow through the vessel is restored and the incision is closed.
5. The patient is monitored in recovery for any immediate complications.

Tools used may include suturing materials, vascular clamps, and grafting patches.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on the complexity of the repair required.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Vascular surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Operating room technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Blood clots or bleeding
• Stroke or transient ischemic attack
• Nerve damage
• Re-narrowing of the blood vessel

Benefits

• Restored blood flow to the neck and brain
• Reduced risk of stroke
• Relief from symptoms caused by reduced blood flow
• Improved overall vascular health

Recovery

• Patients may stay in the hospital for 1-3 days post-operation.
• Pain management will include prescribed pain relief medications.
• Patients should avoid strenuous activities for several weeks.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing and blood flow.

Alternatives

• Angioplasty and stenting: Less invasive but may not be suitable for all vascular issues in the neck.
• Carotid endarterectomy: Specifically for carotid artery narrowing.
• Medication management: For minor blockages or as a preventative measure.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients are under general anesthesia and will not be conscious. Post-procedure, patients may feel some discomfort and will be provided with pain management options. Swelling and bruising around the incision site are common but should subside in a few days.