Bilateral carotid endarterectomy as treatment of vascular pulsatile tinnitus

J Vasc Surg. 2009 Jul;50(1):183-5. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2009.02.208. Epub 2009 May 15.

Abstract

Atherosclerotic carotid artery disease (ACAD) is a rare but recognized cause of pulsatile tinnitus. Existing literature of reported cure for pulsatile tinnitus is reviewed. We found: (1) a male preponderance exists; (2) ipsilateral carotid endarterectomy (CEA) for tinnitus is 92% (12 of 13) effective; (3) proximal lesions lend themselves to CEA whereas distal lesions have been treated by stenting; (4) overall 68% (15 of 22) are cured by intervention; and (5) 89% (17 of 19) can expect immediate relief. We now present a case of bilateral pulsatile tinnitus relieved by bilateral carotid endarterectomy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Carotid Artery Diseases / complications*
  • Endarterectomy, Carotid*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Tinnitus / etiology
  • Tinnitus / surgery*