Cerebral perfusion and cognitive status before and in early period after carotid endarterectomy for symptomatic internal carotid stenosis

Abstract

from 1.01.14.-1.07.14. Information was collected about the use of medication and CHA 2 DS 2-VASc score was calculated before the onset of stroke. Discharged patients or theyre relatives were interviewed by phone after 180 days. Standardized questions were asked about the use of secondary prevention medication, 4 patients groups (according to prescribed medication) were compared accordingly. Results: CHA 2 DS 2-VASc score before the onset of stroke was calculated using non-parametric tests. Calculated median = 4, mode = 4. Of 247 patients before the onset of stroke 51.4% didn't use any antithrombotic medication, 40.1% were using antiplatelet agents, 8.1% warfarin, 0.4% TSOACs. On discharge 5.5% patients were not prescribed antithrombotic medication, 25.6% patients were discharged on antiplatelet agents, 36.1% on warfarin and remaining 22.8% on TSOACs. 180 days after discharge 111 stroke survuivors were contacted-4.5% were not using any antithrombotic medication, 24.3% patients were using antiplatelet agents, 48.6% on warfarin and 22.5% TSOACs. Conclusion: In Latvia cardioembolic stroke primary and secondary prevention is inusfficient. Stroke severity and incompliance of patients limit the use of oral anticoagulants after stroke. Use of oral anticoagulants is a cornerstone of primary and secondary stroke prevention.