Comparing outcomes of carotid endarterectomy with international benchmarks: Audit from an Italian vascular surgery department

Background. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in the current practice of our department of vascular surgery with international benchmarks. Methods. In-patient data from 488 CEA performed in both symptomatic 145 (29.7%) and asymptomatic 343 (70.3%) patients with a ≥ 60% stenosis at the level of the internal carotid artery. Comprehensive retrospective review of the records for all the CEAs performed during a 2-year period. The main outcome measures were death rate, and fatal and non-fatal stroke rates perioperatively, and at 30 and 180 days. Results. The fatal and non-fatal stroke rates of symptomatic patients were: 0.7% perioperatively, 0.7% at 30 days, and 0.7% at 180 days. The fatal and non-fatal stroke rates of asymptomatic patients were: 0.6% perioperatively, 0.6% at 30 days, and 0.3% at 180 days. The death rates of symptomatic patients were 0% for all time periods. The death rates of asymptomatic patients were: 0% perioperatively, 0% at 30 days, and 0.3% at 180 days. Conclusions. The present comprehensive audit shows that our surgeons achieve CEA outcomes comparable with international benchmarks. © 2005 CEPI Srl.