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Complications of a carotid endarterectomy

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.

Information:

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.

Page last reviewed: 23 May 2025
Next review due: 23 May 2025