Neurocognitive dysfunctions and functional state of patients after internal carotid endarterectomy

Abstract

Introduction. Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a method of treatment of carotid stenosis, which significantly reduces the risk of ischemic stroke. This procedure may affect the patient’s neurocognitive functioning. The aim of the study was to evaluate the occurrence of neurocognitive disorders and to determine the functional status of the patients undergoing CEA. Material and methods. The study group consisted of 102 people who underwent CEA. Studies were performed preoperatively and repeated on the fourth postoperative day. The following scales were used: the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADL), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D). Results. The average number of points obtained by patients in the MMSE, both before and after surgery is 26 points to 30 that may be obtained, which shows a subtle cognitive impairment. Almost every patient showed fitness both in terms of basic (ADL), as well as complex (IADL) activities before and after surgery. Conclusions. Low or average level of cognitive performance is observed in most subjects, both before and after CEA. There are many different factors that can affect the cognitive functions. The functional status of patients stood without significant changes.