Quality of life assessment for asymptomatic high-grade carotid stenosis patients before and after carotid endarterectomy

Aim. The aim of the study was to design a quality of life questionnaire for carotid disease patients and to assess the quality of life changes after carotid endarterectomy for asymptomatic patients. Methods. In prospective study 120 patients with severe carotid stenosis were included. All patients underwent carotid endarterectomy in two main university hospitals of Latvia. Patients received and filled in quality of life questionnaires 1-3 days before surgery (preoperatively) and follow-up was made 6 till 7 months after surgery (postoperatively). Results. The questionnaire was designed basing on generic and stroke and vascular quality of life forms. It was adapted for carotid stenosis patients. The questionnaire consisted of 17 questions, that were divided into five domains and there were also one independent question. Patients mentioned significant improvement in quality of life in the all domains: physical, functional, psychological, social and disease specific. Positive changes were observed in cognitive function. Conclusions. Carotid endarterectomy for asymptomatic patients is not only of importance in stroke prophylaxis but in improving patients quality of life by reducing other neurological related complains, like dizziness, headaches, tinnitus, insomnia, etc.