Role of topical lignocaine during carotid endarterectomy

Forty carotid endarterectomies were undertaken in 34 patients. Operations were prospectively randomized to periarterial application of either 1 per cent lignocaine (n = 19) or normal saline (n = 21), and detailed measurements taken of intraoperative pulse rate and blood pressure. Patients receiving lignocaine demonstrated a lower pulse rate, and lower systolic and mean blood pressures than those receiving placebo, with significance in relation to clamp application and shunt removal (P < 0.05). It was particulary noticeable that patients receiving lignocaine demonstrated less intraoperative variation in pulse rate and blood pressure. Topical lignocaine stabilizes pulse rate and blood pressure during carotid endarterectomy.