In management of a symptomatic carotid artery stenosis of 75%, the NASCET trial demonstrated that carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is beneficial when performed within what timeframe after a TIA or minor stroke?

• A Within 4 weeks
• B Within 3 months
• C Within 6 months
• D Within 2 weeks ✓

Explanation

The NASCET trial showed that in patients with 70–99% symptomatic carotid stenosis, CEA reduces ipsilateral stroke and death significantly compared to medical therapy. Subsequent data demonstrate that the greatest benefit is achieved when CEA is performed within 2 weeks of a TIA or minor stroke, when the risk of recurrent stroke is highest. Delayed surgery beyond 2 weeks loses most of the protective benefit. Current NICE and ESC guidelines recommend CEA within 14 days of a non-disabling carotid territory event.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.