Fairfield Medical Center is now offering TCAR (transcarotid artery revascularization), a hybrid treatment option for those living with carotid artery stenosis. The carotid arteries are a pair of blood vessels located on either side of the neck and are responsible for supplying blood and oxygen to the head and brain. When these blood vessels narrow or become blocked, stroke or stroke-like symptoms – including sudden numbness or weakness, loss of balance, disrupted vision or trouble speaking – can occur.
“Carotid artery disease often goes undetected until patients experience stroke symptoms,” explained vascular surgeon Joshua Hernandez, MD, of Fairfield Healthcare Professionals Vascular Surgery. “If someone is considered to be at high risk for the condition, our ability to screen, monitor and promptly treat the blockage can improve patient outcomes and support overall cardiovascular health.”
Not all carotid narrowing requires intervention, and the condition is often managed with medications and lifestyle changes. However, for those exhibiting symptoms or a high degree of stenosis, interventions may be recommended. Fortunately, Fairfield Medical Center offers several procedures to treat carotid artery stenosis – including TCAR.
“TCAR is a cutting-edge technology in the field of vascular surgery,” Dr. Hernandez added. “The procedure offers several benefits, including a unique ‘reversal of flow’ system to reduce the risk of stroke. This method also decreases the risk of nerve injury, kidney complications and heart attack while requiring a smaller incision than traditional surgery, which means patients can experience a quicker recovery and return to health.”
During the procedure, a small incision is made, and the affected carotid artery is connected to the reversal of flow system, shunting blood flow away from the brain. This brief change in direction allows the blood to be filtered and cleaned of any debris that may dislodge during stent placement, which minimizes the risk of post-operative complications. A complex network of vessels keeps the brain oxygenated and healthy for the duration of treatment, and once the carotid artery is re-opened, normal circulation is restored.
“The addition of TCAR to our vascular surgery portfolio offers significant benefit to patients in the region,” said vascular surgeon Jason André, MD, who serves as the program’s medical director as well as a long-standing champion of advanced interventions at Fairfield Medical Center. “Not only are we making care more accessible to residents of Southeast Ohio, but we are expanding our ability to safely and effectively treat patients who may otherwise have been ineligible for treatment due to anatomy concerns or considered too high risk for standard surgery.”
If you or a loved one experience signs of a stroke, including those that appear briefly and resolve within an hour, call 911. Transient ischemic attacks, also known as “mini strokes”, can be a warning sign of an impending emergency. To learn more about carotid artery screenings or interventions, talk with your healthcare provider or contact FHP Vascular Surgery at 740-687-6910.