Possible complications of a carotid endarterectomy
It’s rare to have complications after a carotid endarterectomy.
But as with any operation there are risks, including:
- stroke – there's a small risk of having a stroke after the operation
- pain, numbness, bruising or swelling, which usually gets better soon after the operation
- severe bleeding under the wound – this is rare but if it happens you may need further surgery
- an infection in the wound – this is rare and usually easily treated with antibiotics
- nerve damage – sometimes nerves that are close to the carotid artery can be damaged, causing numbness or weakness in your face
The specialist will discuss the risks of having a carotid endarterectomy in more detail with you before you have the operation.
If your carotid artery becomes narrowed again, you may need to have another operation.
Urgent advice: Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:
You’ve recently had a carotid endarterectomy and you have:
- severe pain that does not go away
- pus or blood coming from your wound, or your wound is swollen or tender
- a very high temperature, or you feel hot or cold and shivery
These symptoms could be signs of a problem like an infection.
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:
- you have weakness or numbness down 1 side of your body
- you have blurred vision or loss of sight in 1 or both eyes
- you are finding it difficult to speak or think of words
- you are confused and have memory loss
- you are feeling dizzy or falling over
- you have a severe headache
- you feel sick (nausea) or you are being sick (vomiting)
These are symptoms of a stroke and need immediate medical attention.
Call 999 to get medical help if you’ve had symptoms of a stroke within the last 24 hours even if they've now stopped.
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.