Frey's syndrome after carotid endarterectomy.

Frey's syndrome after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is due to iatrogenic injury to the auriculotemporal nerve and has not been previously reported. One month after uncomplicated CEA, our patient noted an erythematous flush and copious drainage of clear fluid from the superior portion of his neck wound whenever he ate, or smelled or thought of food. These symptoms lasted for 2 months and eventually resolved without intervention. The cause and treatment of Frey's syndrome is also described.