2018 Spring
TCAR
Abstract
During a routine scan, a 75-year-old male was found to be experiencing a rapid recurrence of carotid artery stenosis. As the patient had previously undergone a carotid endarterectomy on that side, a minimally invasive Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) was performed to reduce risks of stroke and nerve damage. The procedure successfully cleared the blockage, with intraoperative imaging indicating no evidence of recurrence.
Patient Presentation
- A 75-year-old male who had undergone a successful carotid endarterectomy for carotid artery stenosis nine years earlier was discovered during a routine follow-up scan to be experiencing a rapid recurrence of the condition.
- The patient had no other significant health issues.
Assessment
- The patient was referred to MedStar Heart & Vascular Institute (MHVI) for further evaluation and treatment.
- A second conventional open carotid artery endarterectomy would have put the patient at greater risk for nerve damage and stroke, given the likely presence of scar tissue from the
earlier procedure. - Carotid stenting would be the most appropriate means of treatment.
- A minimally invasive transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) procedure was considered a more suitable option for the patient’s condition than a typical transfemoral approach. A TCAR also offered the advantage of reversing blood flow away from the brain, thereby protecting it from embolic debris that might be created during the procedure.
Diagnosis
- A CT scan confirmed that the patient was a good candidate for the TCAR stent procedure.
- The patient was advised of the procedure’s benefits and risks, and gave his consent.
Treatment
- The TCAR was performed during a short procedure under general anesthetic through a 2 cm incision above the patient’s clavicle.
- No problems or unexpected conditions were encountered.
Outcome
- The patient was discharged the day after surgery.
- A follow-up scan verified that the stent is performing as expected, with no recurrence of stenosis.
- The patient will continue to undergo routine monitoring.
Conclusion
Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) is an attractive option for treating carotid artery stenosis in patients instead of carotid endarterectomy or the transfemoral approach.
About Dr. Vallabhaneni
Dr. Vallabhaneni is the director of Vascular SurgeryBaltimore Region for the MedStar Heart & Vascular Institute. Fellowship-trained in vascular surgery, he is experienced in all forms of minimally invasive and open vascular surgery techniques, and is well versed in the medical management of vascular issues. Dr. Vallabhaneni is one of a few physicians in Maryland certified with expertise to perform the TCAR procedure.
“By combining surgical principles of neuroprotection with minimally invasive endovascular techniques,” says Dr. Vallabhaneni, “Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) offers tremendous potential for the treatment of carotid artery stenosis as an alternative to conventional carotid endarterectomy and stenting procedures. Indeed, it has the potential to become the primary therapy for carotid artery stenosis, a trend that will benefit both patients and surgeons.”
Individuals with all forms of carotid artery stenosis maybenefit from minimally invasive treatment options such as TCAR. If you would like to discuss a patient, Dr. Vallabhaneni may be reached at 412-215-7123. Or, call 410-554-2950 to refer a patient. To learn more, visit MedStarHeartInstitute.org.