When treating a vascular condition, our vascular specialists work with you to determine how a given management plan will fit your lifestyle and how to best help you achieve your health goals. To help create a treatment plan, we may suggest ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs. These imaging tests can give us the most information possible to guide management. Our vascular treatment methods include innovative solutions, such as minimally invasive transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) and hybrid catheterization for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA).
Treating Carotid Artery Disease (TCAR)
An innovative new treatment can help patients at risk for stroke due to blockages in the neck arteries, known as carotid artery disease. The procedure, called transcarotid artery revascularization, or TCAR, is minimally invasive and utilizes a new Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved system that temporarily reverses blood flow in the artery during the procedure. Dangerous bits of plaque and blood clots that could dislodge and travel to the brain and cause a stroke are safely diverted away while a stent is inserted to open and stabilize the blockage.
Less scarring, fewer complications, faster recovery
Prior to TCAR, the main treatment option for severe carotid artery disease was an open surgical procedure called carotid endarterectomy. This technique allows for protection of the brain during the procedure, but the large incision leaves a visible scar the length of the neck and carries risks including bleeding, infection, heart attack and nerve injuries that can cause issues with swallowing, speaking and sensation in the face.
TCAR is far less invasive, so patients recover more quickly with less pain and with significantly lower risks of both minor and major complications.
The fight against stroke
Every year, 15 million people worldwide suffer a stroke, also known as a “brain attack.” Nearly 6 million die and another 5 million are left permanently disabled.
TCAR is an important new option in the fight against stroke and is particularly suited for patients at higher risk of complications from carotid endarterectomy due to age, other medical conditions or anatomic issues.
Artery blockage detection – AAA Procedure
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a balloon of blood, which can rupture and cause sudden death. Typically, dangerous and invasive techniques are required for treatment. But today, SJHS offers an innovative treatment in an innovative space.
Our hybrid catheterization lab allows for high-quality imaging, surgical preparation, and catheter procedures all in one area. For patients with an AAA, the hybrid lab and operating room offers specialized tools for a minimally invasive surgery.
The procedure requires collaboration among a team of surgeons, cardiologists, anesthesiologists, nurses, and technologists. Through an efficient team approach, a catheter is used to insert an expandable synthetic graft that reinforces the aorta and prevents rupture of the aneurysm. There are many advantages to this team based approach:
- More precise stent placement
- Reduced blood loss
- Minimal trauma to the aorta
- Less potential for complications
- Fewer (or no) days in intensive care
In addition, the environment makes it easier for patients and loved ones to see what’s going on. The patient is actively involved in treatment and can see results on screen. The best result by far is that more individuals are surviving and getting home more quickly.
