Evaluation of the relationship between carotid artery stenosis and CALLY index in patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass surgery.

BACKGROUND

Carotid artery stenosis is a significant predictor of perioperative stroke risk in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Identifying noninvasive, simple, and clinically relevant biomarkers for risk stratification is crucial in this population. The CALLY index, a composite marker reflecting systemic inflammation and nutritional status, has shown prognostic value in various diseases. However, its relationship with carotid artery stenosis in patients undergoing isolated CABG remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between carotid artery stenosis and the CALLY index in patients undergoing isolated CABG.

METHODS

This retrospective, single-center study included 820 patients who underwent isolated CABG and preoperative carotid Doppler ultrasonography between January 2020 and December 2024. The degree of carotid artery stenosis was classified into three groups (<50, 50-70, >70%). CALLY index values were calculated using lymphocyte count, albumin, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Statistical analyses included Kruskal-Wallis H and Spearman's rank correlation tests.

RESULTS

The CALLY index was significantly lower in patients with higher degrees of carotid artery stenosis ( P  < 0.001). A strong negative correlation was found between the CALLY index and carotid stenosis severity (Spearman's rho = -0.831, P  < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Low CALLY index values are significantly associated with the presence and severity of carotid artery stenosis in patients undergoing isolated CABG. The CALLY index may serve as a simple and practical biomarker for preoperative risk assessment, aiding in the identification of high-risk patients and potentially improving surgical outcomes.