PCB is a viable technique for treatment of extensive atherosclerotic carotid lesions, recurrent carotid stenosis, and carotid stenosis after radiation therapy. Postoperative stroke, occlusion, and recurrent stenosis rates are comparable to those associated with CEA performed under optimal conditions.

This nationwide study demonstrates that stent-graft repair for thoracic aortic disease can be performed with acceptable postoperative morbidity. However, it is not a risk-free procedure and should continue to be used in an investigative setting.

Total laparoscopic repair is feasible and safe for occlusive and aneurysmal aortic disease. Operators must acquire technical skills using simulators.

Surg 2009;xx:xx-xx.Objectives: To determine the prevalence of asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis (ACAS) in patients with peripheral vascular disease (PVD).Methods: Literature search was carried out through Pubmed, Medline and Cochrane library. Prospective studies published on prevalence of significant carotid stenosis in patients with PVD and used a duplex scan for screenings were included.Results: Nineteen studies with a total of 4573 patients were included. A prevalence of 28% (fixed effect model) and 25% (random effect model) was seen for Ͼ50% stenosis, and 14% (in both fixed and random effect models) for 70% stenosis. Significant statistical heterogeneity existed between studies (I 2 ϭ 82.7%, Ͼ50% group) (I 2 ϭ 77.5%, Ͼ70% group). Larger studies revealed a higher prevalence of carotid stenosis.Conclusion: High prevalence of ACAS exists in patients with PVD. A large multi centre prospective study may help to combat heterogeneity and identify subgroups of PVD patients with higher prevalence.Clinicians who believe in the benefits of carotid endarterectomy for asymptomatic carotid stenosis would gain a greater yield by targeting this group for routine screening rather than a healthy population.

In a single centre, CEA with routine completion angiography resulted in good perioperative outcome. Plaque length, technique for external carotid artery (ECA) endarterectomy and trainee as first operator were independent predictors of operative defects seen on completion angiography.