24/07/2025
Complications of Carotid Endarterectomy: What Homecare Patients and Families Should Know
Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a surgical procedure to clear blocked arteries and reduce stroke risk. After surgery, careful homecare is essential to ensure a smooth recovery and catch any complications early.
Common Complications to Watch For:
❤️ Cardiac Issues:
Though rare, heart attacks can occur after surgery. Monitor for chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue and seek medical help if these appear.
🧠 Neurologic Concerns:
Stroke Signs: Sudden weakness, speech difficulty, or facial drooping need immediate emergency care.
Nerve Injuries: Some patients may experience temporary numbness or difficulty moving parts of the face or tongue, which usually improve over time.
Hyperperfusion Syndrome: Watch for severe headaches, seizures, or confusion, especially if blood pressure is high.
🩸 Bleeding Risks:
Neck swelling, bruising, or difficulty breathing after surgery require urgent medical attention.
🦠 Infection:
Keep the surgical site clean. Look out for redness, warmth, pus, or fever and contact your healthcare provider promptly.
⚠️ Long-term Monitoring:
Restenosis, or artery narrowing again, can happen months or years later. Regular follow-up appointments and lifestyle changes (like quitting smoking) help reduce this risk.
Homecare Tips for a Safe Recovery:
Follow all medication and blood pressure instructions carefully.
Attend all scheduled follow-up visits.
Maintain a healthy diet and avoid smoking.
Monitor for any unusual symptoms and report them promptly.
Our homecare team is here to support you through every step of your recovery. For questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out!
