TCAR (TransCarotid Artery Revascularization)

For details on heart valve repair treatment at UR Medicine, contact (585) 275-2475

What it treats

Thousands of Americans suffer a stroke each year, which occurs when blood flow to the brain is compromised. In many cases, the culprit is carotid artery disease. The carotid arteries travel to the brain directly from the main artery connected to your heart. When plaque accumulates in them, the carotid arteries can narrow, affecting blood blow to the brain. If a piece of plaque breaks off, it can make its way to the brain and cause a stroke.

How it works

Transcarotid Artery Revascularization, or TCAR, is a newer, minimally invasive procedure developed to treat carotid artery disease and prevent stroke. It requires a smaller incision that previous forms of treatment.

• The surgeon makes a small incision at the neckline and places a tube directly into the carotid artery.
• This tube connects to a system that temporarily keeps blood from flowing to the brain in a way that protects it from any plaque that might break off during the procedure.
• The system will filter out any dangerous material outside the body, then safely return the blood through a second tube in the leg.
• The surgeon implants a carotid stent to stabilize the artery and prevent strokes.

Find out more

For details on heart valve repair treatment at UR Medicine, contact (585) 275-2475.