After Carotid Endarterectomy: In the Hospital

After surgery, you will be taken to a post anesthesia care unit (PACU). Later, you may be transferred to a regular hospital room where you will stay for 1 or 2 days. In many cases, you can go home after one night.

The first few hours

• You will remain in the PACU until you are recovered from the anesthesia. 
• Your blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, oxygenation and neurological status will be monitored closely.
• It is not uncommon to be given intravenous (IV) medicine to keep your blood pressure within a certain range.
• If you are on IV blood pressure medicine, this will gradually be weaned off as your blood pressure stabilizes.
• You will be restarted on your usual blood pressure medicines when it is safe to do so.
• Try not to move your head. It is normal to feel some discomfort near the incision
• You will be given pain medicine for the pain or discomfort.
• Your loved ones may be able to visit with you while you are in the PACU.

As you regain strength

• After you are stabilized in the recovery room, you will be transferred to a postoperative unit (POU) for continued monitoring of your blood pressure, heart rate, oxygenation and neurological status overnight.
• You will be allowed clear liquids at first, and your diet will be advanced as tolerated to include other foods.
• Expect to be up and walking again within 24 hours, if you have no complications. 
• If you have a drain, it will be removed by a doctor or nurse the day after surgery.
• Most people spend at least one night in the hospital.
• You can go home when your doctor says it is okay.
• Have an adult family member or friend accompany you home.