Discharge Instructions for Carotid Endarterectomy 

A carotid endarterectomy restores normal blood flow through the vessels that carry blood to your brain. These vessels are called the carotid arteries. During the surgery, a surgeon made a small incision in the side of your neck, just below your jaw. The artery was opened and the blockage was cleared. This procedure was done to reduce your risk of a stroke, which can occur when the carotid arteries are severely blocked or narrowed.

Home care

• Spend your first few days after surgery relaxing at home. It is OK to do quiet activities such as reading or watching TV.
• Take your medicines exactly as instructed. Do not skip doses.
• Do not drive until your doctor says it is OK. This will most likely take 1 to 2 weeks.
• Keep the wound dry until your doctor says it is OK to shower. Do not scrub your incision.
• Do not do strenuous activity for 7 to 10 days after your surgery.
• Do not lift anything heavier than 10 pounds for 2 to 3 weeks after your surgery.
• Ask your doctor when you can expect to return to work.
• Shave carefully around your incision. You may want to use an electric razor.
• Gradually increase your activity. It may take some time for you to return to your normal activities.
• Check your incision every day for signs of infection (redness, swelling, drainage, or warmth).
• Do not be alarmed if you have some loss of feeling along your jaw line, the incision line, and earlobe. This is a result of the incision and usually goes away after 6 to 12 months.

Long-term changes at home

• Eat a healthy, low-fat, low cholesterol, and low calorie diet. Ask your doctor for menus and other diet information.
• Maintain your ideal body weight.
• After you have recovered from surgery, try to exercise more, especially walking. Ask your doctor for guidance.
• If you smoke, ask your doctor for help quitting. 

Follow-up care

Make a follow-up appointment, or as directed.