Postoperative Cerebral Hyperperfusion Associated With Impaired Cognitive Function in Patients Undergoing Carotid Endarterectomy

The authors conducted a study to determine if postoperative cerebral hyperfusion is associated with the impairment of function in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Computed tomography was used to measure cerebral blood flow in 92 patients before and immediately after CEA. Neuropsychological testing was also performed preoperatively and at 1, 3, and 6 months of follow-up. The incidence of postoperative cognitive impairment in patients with post-CEA hyperperfusion was higher than those without. The authors concluded that postoperative cerebral hyperfusion is associated with impairment of cognitive function in patients undergoing CEA.