Safety and efficacy of carotid arteriography in vascular surgery practice

ObjectiveCarotid arteriography (CA) is an important method of assessing carotid artery occlusive disease and is the best method of planning for carotid angioplasty and stent placement (CAS). This study compared the results of CA performed by vascular surgeons in a contemporary series against widely recognized interdisciplinary quality standards for this procedure. Although many vascular surgeons perform CA, there is a paucity of data about its safety, efficacy, and compliance with quality standards in vascular practice. The importance of quality CA will likely increase as CAS emerges to assume a broader clinical role.MethodCarotid arteriograms performed by seven vascular surgeons at three institutions from September 2000 to May 2004 were reviewed. These results were compared with quality standards for the performance of CA.ResultsFive hundred three carotid arteriograms were performed over 45 months. Indications for the procedure were extracranial cerebrovascular disease (86%), trauma (5%), and other conditions (9%). Indications for the procedure were appropriate in 100% of patients (as determined by guidelines document) and exceeded the recommended standard of appropriate indications in 99%. All procedures successfully provided the information required, exceeding the threshold of 98% for procedural success. Reversible neurologic deficits occurred in 0.6% (two transient ischemic attacks and one stroke) compared with the threshold of 2.5%. A permanent neurologic deficit occurred in 0.2% (1 patient) compared with the published guideline of 1% after carotid arteriography. Major non-neurologic complications occurred in 1.2% (6 patients), less than the standard of 2.0%.ConclusionsThe safety and efficacy of a contemporary series of CA performed in vascular surgery practice compared favorably with recognized interdisciplinary quality standards for this procedure. Ensuring safe and effective CA is likely to support the successful growth of CAS as a treatment option