Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR)

TCAR is a groundbreaking method to open up a blocked carotid artery with a small flexible metal mesh tube called a stent to improve blood supply to the brain. TCAR is a new option for patients with carotid artery disease considered to be at high-risk for the conventional operative approach, called carotid endarterectomy or those who are not a candidate for trans femoral carotid stent.

How Does TCAR Work?

• TCAR is performed through a small incision at the base of the neck
• A novel device is placed that temporarily redirects blood flow away from the blocked carotid artery to avoid bits of cholesterol plaque from potentially reaching the brain and causing a stroke during the procedure
• While blood flow is being diverted, it is filtered to remove loose plaque that may be present
• During the time of the blood flow diversion, the surgeon can safely open the artery with a stent
• Following the stent placement, blood flow is returned to normal

Benefits:

• There is a reduced risk of stroke compared to traditional carotid stenting
• The procedure is minimally invasive
• Only a small incision is required
• Typically, patients’ experience a similar hospital stay and a quicker recovery than with the conventional carotid endarterectomy approach
• TCAR is a clinically-proven option specifically for patients at high-risk for a complication with traditional carotid endarterectomy due to advanced age, other medical conditions or anatomic challenges in the neck.