Transcarotid Artery
Revascularization (TCAR)
Combining the benefits of surgery with a less invasive approach
Transcarotid Artery
Revascularization
(TCAR)
Transcarotid
Artery
Revascularization
(TCAR)
A Less Invasive Way to Prevent Stroke and Treat Carotid Artery Disease
TCAR is a carotid artery procedure that carries the same low stroke rate as the traditional surgical option (CEA) with a less invasive approach that reduces the risk of heart attack and nerve injury. TCAR also reduces the time required to perform the procedure and the amount of time the average patient needs to spend recovering in the hospital.
TCAR Versus Carotid Endarterectomy Video
View a short video on the differences between carotid endarterectomy versus the less invasive TCAR procedure.
The TCAR Procedure
During the TCAR procedure, patients are protected from stroke since blood flow on the side being treated is temporarily directed away from the brain and into a filter – this helps prevent any dangerous, fatty material from going up to your brain and causing a stroke. A flexible, metal tube called a stent is placed in the carotid artery to help prevent strokes and increase blood flow to the brain.
Less Invasive Carotid Artery Disease Treatment Benefits
Exceptional
Stroke Prevention
TCAR has similar or lower chances of stroke when compared to other carotid artery surgery options such as carotid endarterectomy and transfemoral carotid artery stenting.
Less Risk of Having a Heart Attack
A less invasive incision (cut) and a shorter procedure reduces the stress on the heart during treatment.
Less Risk of
Nerve Damage
With a much smaller incision (cut), compared to traditional carotid artery surgery, there is less chance of nerve damage that can cause issues with swallowing, speaking and sensation in the face.
Shorter
Hospital Stay
Patients having TCAR are (on average) able to leave the hospital faster than those that have traditional carotid endarterectomy.
Pre & Post TCAR Treatment
Whether or not you have had any symptoms of a stroke or an actual stroke, the TCAR procedure is performed to lessen your risk for a future stroke.
What to expect before and after the procedure:
- Most patients are able to go home the day following the procedure
- You may experience some pain after this procedure, but it should be minimal
- Follow all of your physician’s instructions for taking care of your incision site
- If you experience unusual headaches, dizziness or other unusual symptoms, call the physician who performed your procedure immediately or dial 911
- It is important to follow your physician’s instructions for medication before and after this procedure. Drink plenty of water before midnight the day before your procedure
Risks of Transcarotid Artery Revascularization
A potential complication of TCAR is a stroke during the procedure itself. For patients at higher risk for open surgery, the TCAR procedure is designed to reduce the risk of stroke while inserting a stent. When compared to carotid endarterectomy, TCAR patients are equally likely to have a stroke during the procedure itself and are less likely to have a heart attack, experience nerve injury, and stay more than one day at the hospital. Studies also show that patients having a TCAR procedure have a lower risk of stroke than patients that have a transfemoral carotid artery stenting procedure.
Risks of Transcarotid Artery Revascularization
A potential complication of TCAR is a stroke during the procedure itself. For patients at higher risk for open surgery, the TCAR procedure is designed to reduce the risk of stroke while inserting a stent. When compared to carotid endarterectomy, TCAR patients are equally likely to have a stroke during the procedure itself and are less likely to have a heart attack, experience nerve injury, and stay more than one day at the hospital. Studies also show that patients having a TCAR procedure have a lower risk of stroke than patients that have a transfemoral carotid artery stenting procedure.
Additional Carotid Artery Treatment Options
Medical Therapy
Managing your carotid artery disease with medication
Carotid Endarterectomy
Surgical treatment option to reduce the risk of stroke
Transfemoral Carotid Artery Stenting
Carotid artery disease treated with a stent placed with access through the upper leg
Insurance and Medicare Coverage for TCAR
The TCAR procedure is typically covered by Medicare insurance for patients at high risk and standard risk for open carotid artery surgery. Your physician will assess your risk factors to determine if you are eligible for coverage by your specific insurance plan.
Diagnosed with Carotid Artery Disease?
Search physicians and practices that perform carotid artery surgery using the latest technology
Diagnosed with Carotid Artery Disease?
Search physicians and practices that perform carotid artery surgery using the latest technology