Carotid artery stenosis increases the risk of stroke, particularly with advancing age. However, for those who are not candidates for open surgery, there is a safe and highly effective treatment option available.
Transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) offers a minimally invasive approach to address carotid artery stenosis and reduce the risk of stroke.
What is transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR)?
TCAR is a minimally invasive procedure that clears blockages and restores normal blood flow in a narrowed carotid artery. The surgeon makes an incision over the common carotid artery to perform the repair.
During the TCAR procedure, the surgical team reverses blood flow in the affected area, significantly lowering the risk of stroke. By using a surgical balloon and stents, the narrowed artery is reopened, allowing blood to reach the brain through alternative blood vessels.
Eligibility for the TCAR Procedure
TCAR is an excellent choice for people with a higher risk of complications from surgery due to age or other health conditions. Your doctor will assess whether you are a suitable candidate for TCAR.
TCAR may be offered to individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Greater than 50% stenosis with symptoms
- More than 70% stenosis without symptoms
If you have any of the following conditions, TCAR may be considered as an alternative to carotid endarterectomy:
- Age of 75 or older
- Congestive heart failure or unstable angina
- Recent heart attack (myocardial infarction) within the past six weeks
- History of head or neck surgery or irradiation
- Other issues related to the larynx (voice box) or neck
- Restenosis (recurrence of carotid stenosis) or stenosis in both carotid arteries
- Uncontrolled diabetes or severe pulmonary (lung) disease