Area’s first minimally invasive Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR)

The Southeast Health Medical Center recently performed the area’s first minimally invasive transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR), which is an innovative procedure to treat carotid artery disease.

Abdelsalam Osman, MD, vascular surgeon at the Southeast Health Cardiovascular Institute, performed the successful procedure. TCAR is unique in that blood flow is temporarily reversed during the procedure so that any small bits of plaque that may break off are diverted away from the brain, reducing the risk of a stroke. During the procedure, a surgical balloon and stents are used to reopen the narrowed artery. Blood still reaches the brain through other blood vessels. TCAR also reduces the size of the incision, compared to the traditional endarterectomy surgical procedure, needed to remove the plaque in the carotid artery resulting in a faster recovery and a shorter hospital stay.

Older adults and patients with significant medical conditions, or individuals who have already undergone surgery or radiation treatment to the neck are potential candidates for TCAR. This new innovative procedure is just another way we are making Southeast Southbest for heart and vascular care. For more information about the comprehensive heart and vascular services offered at the Cardiovascular Institute click on Southeast Health Cardiovascular Institute | Dothan, AL
The Cardiovascular Institute is at 102 Doctors Drive on the Southeast Health Medical Center campus.