TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR)

TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) is a less invasive treatment option for some patients with carotid artery stenosis. While any repair of the carotid artery carries some risk of stroke, TCAR is specifically designed to help minimize stroke risk by keeping potential stroke particles away from the brain.

What is TCAR?

TCAR is a hybrid treatment approach that uses direct access to the carotid artery through a small incision at the neckline, similar to the open surgical approach of carotid endarterectomy (CEA). A surgeon then places a tube into the carotid artery connected to a system that temporarily directs blood flow away from the brain during the procedure. This redirection of blood flow helps to protect the brain from any small pieces of plaque that may break loose during the procedure, lowering the risk of stroke.

While the TCAR system filters the blood for any small particles before returning it to a vein in the groin, a vascular surgeon implants a stent directly into the carotid artery to open up the plaque blockage. After the surgeon has completed the stenting process, blood flow returns to normal and the TCAR system is removed.

Our vascular surgeons can determine if the TCAR procedure is right for your or a loved one. For a referral to a vascular surgeon that performs the TCAR procedure, please fill out the referral form.

The Advantages of a TCAR Procedure

Patients who undergo the TCAR procedure:

• Have less risk for stroke during the treatment procedure
• Experience quicker procedure times as compared to open surgery (carotid endarterectomy)
• Recover quickly, typically spending just one night in the hospital
• Return to normal routine activities quickly
• Have a reduced risk of future stroke(s)
• Have less pain immediately following the procedure and smaller scars

Who should be considered for the TCAR procedure?

TCAR is recommended for patients that:

• Are high risk for traditional CEA surgery due to age, anatomy, and/or other medical conditions
• Are high risk for traditional carotid artery stenting procedures performed through an access site in the leg

BayCare facilities that perform the TCAR procedure:

Mease Countryside Hospital located in Safety Harbor, Florida

Morton Plant Hospital located in Clearwater, Florida

Morton Plant North Bay Hospital located in New Port Richey, Florida 

St. Joseph’s Hospital located in Tampa, Florida

St. Joseph's Hospital-North located in Lutz, Florida

St. Anthony’s Hospital located in St. Petersburg, Florida

Winter Haven Hospital located in Winter Haven, Florida

Our vascular surgeons can determine if the TCAR procedure is right for your or a loved one. For a referral to a vascular surgeon that performs the TCAR procedure, please fill out the referral form.