Exeter Hospital introduces innovative TCAR procedure to treat carotid artery disease

EXETER – Core Vascular Surgeons at Exeter Hospital recently performed their first TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) procedure, a minimally invasive and safer approach for high surgical risk patients to treat carotid artery disease and prevent future strokes.  

Carotid artery disease is a form of atherosclerosis, or a buildup of plaque, in the two main arteries in the neck that supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain. If left untreated, carotid artery disease can often lead to stroke; it is estimated to be the source of stroke in up to a third of cases. 

TCAR is unique in that blood flow is temporarily reversed during the procedure so that any small bits of plaque that may break off are diverted away from the brain, preventing a stroke from happening. A stent is then placed inside the artery to stabilize the plaque, minimizing the risk of a future stroke. Prior to TCAR, the main treatment option for severe carotid artery disease was an open surgical procedure that carries risks of surgical complications and cranial nerve injuries that can cause issues with swallowing, speaking and sensation in the face.   

“TCAR is an important new option in the fight against stroke, and is particularly suited for the patients we see who are at higher risk of complications from carotid surgery due to age, anatomy, or other medical conditions,” said Dr. Jessica Wallaert, Core Vascular Surgery. “This procedure represents a real advancement in vascular surgery, and we are thrilled to be offering this cutting-edge technology right here in our community.” 

The TCAR procedure was developed by Sunnyvale, California-based Silk Road Medical, Inc. More than 20,000 TCAR procedures have been performed worldwide through clinical trial and commercial use.