Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR)

TCAR is a less-invasive alternative to carotid endarterectomy, an open surgery for carotid artery disease. During TCAR, we insert a tube into your carotid artery that temporarily reroutes blood away from your brain to prevent debris from causing a stroke. We filter your blood before returning it to a vein in your groin and implant a stent to stabilize the plaque in your artery.

TCAR has a low procedural stroke rate and is less invasive than open surgery, reducing the chances of complications like heart attacks, infections and nerve injuries. Patients recover quickly and usually go home the next day with less pain and smaller scars.

Providers have performed over 10,000 TCAR procedures worldwide, and many studies have shown excellent clinical data. The Society of Vascular Surgeryopens in a new tab, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)opens in a new tab and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)opens in a new tab support its reimbursement. In May 2022, the FDA approved expanded use for patients of average surgical risk.

TCAR is for patients at average or high risk for traditional surgery due to age, anatomic issues, and other medical conditions. Your doctor will determine if TCAR is right for you based on your medical history.

Your surgeon will make a small incision at the base of your neck. They then will place a tube in your carotid artery to direct blood flow away from your brain, capturing any debris. They will filter your blood and return it through a second tube in your groin. The surgeon will place a stent in the carotid artery. The procedure usually takes less than an hour, and you can be either asleep or awake.

Silk Road Medical developed the TCAR procedure, which includes the ENROUTE® Transcarotid Neuroprotection and Stent System. For more information, visit Silk Road Medicalopens in a new tab or call us at 314-434-3049 to schedule a consultation with a vascular surgeon.