Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR)

TCAR is intended to prevent future strokes by repairing carotid artery disease. During TCAR, blood flow is reversed, so that any plague that breaks off in clogged arteries is diverted away from the brain, preventing a stroke.

How the Procedure is Performed

A small incision is made at your neckline. A tube will be installed along with a device that will redirect blood flow away from the brain. As plague breaks off, it will be filtered into a system outside the body to help clear up the carotid artery. This cleaned up blood will then be redirected back into the body through a vein in the leg. A stent is placed at the site of remaining plague, and blood flow is returned to normal.

What to Expect After the Procedure

This procedure typically requires the patient to stay just one full day in the hospital. You'll likely be put on blood thinners and will able to return to normal activity immediately.

Vigorous activity will probably need to wait for at least a week. Our WakeMed vascular surgeon will give you guidelines — individualized to your needs — addressing when you can resume exercise and other strenuous activity.

Following the procedure, you will be closely monitored through a series of appointments to make sure your procedure is effective.

It will be important to stop smoking. At WakeMed, we have a smoking cessation program that can help you to quit.