The asymptomatic octogenarian and carotid endarterectomy —While we await the results of CREST-2

Currently there is no definitive level I evidence regarding the appropriate management of asymptomatic moderate to severe carotid artery stenosis in the octogenarian patient. In this 5-year review of National Surgical Quality Improvement Program registry data, exceptional “real-world” results are reported with use of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in this growing cohort.1 The combined stroke and death rate was 2% at 30-day follow-up (stroke rate 1%!), with the authors stating that “age alone should not interdict this modality.”
Source: Journal of Vascular Surgery - Category: Surgery Authors: Tags: Invited commentary Source Type: research