Name of the Procedure:

Bypass Graft with Other than Vein; Common Carotid-Ipsilateral Internal Carotid

• Commonly referred to as: Carotid Artery Bypass, Carotid Graft Surgery

Summary

Carotid artery bypass surgery involves creating a new pathway for blood to reach the brain by grafting an artificial tube or artery to bypass a blocked or narrowed section of the common or internal carotid artery. This surgery is crucial for preventing strokes and ensuring adequate blood flow to the brain.

Purpose

• Medical Condition: Carotid artery disease, significant arterial stenosis, or narrowing/blockage of the carotid arteries.
• Goals: To restore adequate blood flow to the brain and reduce the risk of stroke or other complications due to reduced cerebral circulation.

Indications

• Symptoms of carotid artery disease such as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or previous stroke.
• Severe narrowing (usually over 70%) of the common or internal carotid artery.
• When endarterectomy (removal of plaque from the artery) is not feasible.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Patient may need to fast for a certain period (typically 8-12 hours) before surgery.
• Medication Adjustments: Some medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be adjusted or temporarily halted.
• Diagnostic Tests: Pre-surgery tests could include Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, MRI, or carotid angiogram to assess the extent and location of the artery narrowing.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient will be under general anesthesia.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the neck to access the carotid arteries.
3. Graft Placement: An artificial tube or biological graft (often from another artery) will be placed to bypass the blocked section. The graft is sewn into place to create a new route for blood flow from the common to the internal carotid artery.
4. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a bandage is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

Setting

Performed in a hospital operating room with necessary surgical and diagnostic equipment.

Personnel

• Surgeons: Vascular or Cardiovascular surgeon specializing in artery-related procedures.
• Nurses: Operating room and recovery nurses.
• Anesthesiologists: Manage anesthesia during the procedure.
• Technicians: Support with necessary imaging and maintenance of sterile fields.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, blood clots, nerve injury causing temporary or permanent issues such as hoarseness.
• Rare Risks: Stroke, heart attack, graft blockages, severe allergic reactions to anesthesia.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Significant reduction in the risk of stroke, improved blood flow to the brain.
• Realization: Benefits are often realized immediately post-surgery with improved patient symptoms and reduced risk of stroke.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: The patient will typically spend one night in a hospital for monitoring. Regular wound care and pain management as needed.
• Recovery Time: Most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks, with some restrictions on vigorous activities.
• Follow-up: Regular follow-ups with the surgeon and possibly ultrasounds to ensure the graft is functioning properly.

Alternatives

• Endarterectomy: Removal of plaque from the artery itself.
• Angioplasty and Stenting: Less invasive options include widening the artery with a balloon and placing a stent to keep it open.
• Medication Management: In less severe cases, controlling risk factors with medications and lifestyle changes might be recommended.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: The patient will be under general anesthesia and won’t feel pain during the surgery.
• After Procedure: Some soreness and swelling around the incision site; pain management will be provided. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and signs of any complications will be necessary.