Dr. Hasanadka Performs First TCAR Procedure at SBL
Sarah Bush Lincoln Vascular Surgeon Ravishankar Hasanadka, MD, now performs the TCAR (TransCarotid Artery Revascularization) procedure as an alternate method of clearing a blocked carotid artery.
Other methods of stenting a carotid artery include the transfemoral (through the femoral artery) approach and an endarterectomy (done through an incision on the neck). While these methods are effective, the TCAR procedure offers a minimally-invasive approach and has a lower stroke rate than transfemoral carotid stenting.
“If you compared all three methods, they are all effective and bear, roughly, the same risks,” Dr. Hasanadka said. “The TCAR has slight advantages that make it attractive for people who qualify for it.”
An incision for an endarterectomy is approximately eight centimeters (two-and-a-half to three inches) along the neck, whereas the incision for TCAR is between two to three centimeters, right above the collarbone.
Post-operation recovery is the same for the different procedures, involving an overnight stay. People’s recovery at home is where the TCAR offers the quicker recuperation. “After a TCAR, you can feel completely normal after a day or two,” Dr. Hasanadka said. “Following an endarterectomy, people typically feel normal after a few days, but it can be a week or two in some cases.”
Not everyone is eligible for a TCAR; a CT scan is performed to determine if their vascular structure can support the procedure, and if they are eligible, they are offered the choice between a TCAR and an endarterectomy.
“If someone is eligible for both, I will explain the process for each procedure and the risks associated with both and offer them that choice,” Dr. Hasanadka said. “Offering the TCAR at Sarah Bush Lincoln is a way to provide more service to the community and give people a local option, rather than driving further from home to receive a TCAR, if they prefer it.”
For more information, call SBL Vascular Services at 217-258-4049.
