Key result
Carotid endarterectomy was substantially overused, with only 35% of procedures performed for appropriate reasons and 32% for inappropriate reasons, alongside a 9.8% major complication rate.
Why the study?
Is carotid endarterectomy performed for appropriate indications and what is the associated complication rate in Medicare patients?
Observational (n=1,302)
Yes
Is carotid endarterectomy performed for appropriate indications and what is the associated complication rate in Medicare patients?
Carotid endarterectomy was substantially overused in the studied Medicare population, with nearly a third of procedures deemed inappropriate and a high major complication rate of 9.8%.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
May warrant review of CEA indications in Medicare patients; leaves open whether updated criteria would reduce overuse and complications.
Winslow et al. (1988) conducted an observational in Carotid endarterectomy (n=1,302). Carotid endarterectomy was evaluated on Appropriateness of carotid endarterectomy. Carotid endarterectomy was substantially overused, with only 35% of procedures performed for appropriate reasons and 32% for inappropriate reasons, alongside a 9.8% major complication rate.
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