Monday, August 1, 2011

Ask Dr KK: Should I screen each patient for presence of carotid neck artery blockages?


The guideline says no. The potential harms include risks associated with the screening procedure itself like false positive findings leading to anxiety and the potential for unnecessary surgical procedures. Carotid angiography is associated with risk of neurological complications including stroke, with rates ranging from 0.1 to 1 %.

About the author: Dr K K Aggarwal is Padmashri and Dr B C Roy National Awardee, President Heart Care Foundation of India, Dean Board of Medical Education Moolchand Medcity, Sr. Physician & Cardiologist, Visiting professor Clinical Research DIPSAR, Past President Delhi Medical Association, Past Academic and Research Wing Head IMA, Chairman Ethics Committee Delhi Medical Council. 
 

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