Is heparin reversal with protamine after carotid endarterectomy dangerous?

Abstract in brief

• The study investigates whether reversing heparin with protamine after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) increases the risk of complications like stroke, with findings suggesting no significant harm from protamine use.
• Data shows that patients who received heparin alone had a slightly higher stroke rate, whereas those given protamine experienced more postoperative haematomas; however, reoperation rates were similar between groups.
• Overall, the results support that using protamine is safe, and the decision to reverse heparin should be based on individual surgeon judgment rather than concerns of increased risk.]