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What is the cause of tightness after carotid endarterctomy?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I underwent carotid endarterectomy four months ago on my right carotid artery. The Doppler test showed 90 % stenosis. A patch was used during surgery. It seemed to be fine after surgery. On follow-up, I consulted a vascular surgeon. He told me that I have a right to a better recovery.

But I have a pulling or a tight sensation coming from the artery or patch. The feeling is not pain, but it is a pulling or an uncomfortable feeling. Do I need to be concerned about it? Should I need to contact the surgeon? I am taking Clopidogrel 75 mg and Pravastatin 20 mg. Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Himanshu Verma

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Himanshu Verma is a Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon who specializes in treating varicose veins and diabetic foot care. He is an expert in minimally invasive treatments such as Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), sclerotherapy, and iliac vein stenting, with rapid recovery and minimal discomfort. He is skilled in managing venous ulcers and chronic venous insufficiency, including advanced techniques like trapdoor internal valvuloplasty.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

It is perfectly normal to have a stretching sensation in any surgical area. You may have less sensation in the neck and lower cheek. It is advised to be careful when you shave, as you might accidentally cut it.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

What about the patch placed over my carotid artery? Can the patch become unattached, or is any other such issue present?

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Himanshu Verma

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Himanshu Verma is a Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon who specializes in treating varicose veins and diabetic foot care. He is an expert in minimally invasive treatments such as Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), sclerotherapy, and iliac vein stenting, with rapid recovery and minimal discomfort. He is skilled in managing venous ulcers and chronic venous insufficiency, including advanced techniques like trapdoor internal valvuloplasty.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

The carotid patch will not become unattached usually. It is seen only in a rare condition when there is an infection. It can give way, and a pseudoaneurysm can form. As a follow-up, Doppler tests are done after a month and after 12 months. It is highly unlikely to occur.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you,

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At September 3, 2018
Reviewed At October 7, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Himanshu Verma is a Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon who specializes in treating varicose veins and diabetic foot care. He is an expert in minimally invasive treatments such as Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), sclerotherapy, and iliac vein stenting, with rapid recovery and minimal discomfort. He is skilled in managing venous ulcers and chronic venous insufficiency, including advanced techniques like trapdoor internal valvuloplasty.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Himanshu Verma is a Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon who specializes in treating varicose veins and diabetic foot care. He is an expert in minimally invasive treatments such as Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), sclerotherapy, and iliac vein stenting, with rapid recovery and minimal discomfort. He is skilled in managing venous ulcers and chronic venous insufficiency, including advanced techniques like trapdoor internal valvuloplasty.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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