Skip to content Carotid artery disease develops when fatty plaque builds up inside the neck arteries that carry blood to your brain. As these blockages grow more severe, stroke risk increases and many patients worry constantly about what might happen. Prime Vascular Care offers a solution through TCAR surgery in Northern Virginia.
We perform this minimally invasive procedure through a small neck incision, which means less surgical trauma, faster recovery and better protection for your brain during treatment.
Facial Drooping
Slurred Speech
Vision Changes
Arm Weakness
TCAR gives surgeons a newer, less invasive way to treat severe carotid artery blockages. The procedure works through a small incision in your neck, where we access the blocked artery directly. What makes TCAR different is its flow reversal system. We temporarily redirect blood away from the brain while placing a stent, which prevents stroke during treatment.
Key Features:
Small incision above the collarbone
Flow reversal keeps plaque debris away from the brain
Stent opens the blocked artery and keeps it clear
Shorter recovery than traditional carotid surgery
TCAR brings several benefits compared to older methods of treating carotid blockages. The smaller incision causes less tissue damage and gets you back to normal activities faster. During the procedure, the flow reversal system adds an extra layer of brain protection. Most patients leave the hospital the next day rather than spending multiple days recovering.
Primary Benefits:
Smaller incision with less trauma to surrounding tissue
Brain protection through temporary flow reversal
Restored blood flow with stent placement
Discharge within 24 hours for most patients
Most people with carotid artery disease have no warning signs until the condition becomes advanced. Sometimes, the first sign is a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), often called a “mini-stroke.” Recognizing these symptoms and acting quickly can save brain function and lives.
Risk factors include:
Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
Trouble speaking or understanding speech
Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
Dizziness, loss of balance, or confusion
Severe sudden headache
Before your TCAR procedure, our team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to ensure you’re fully prepared and optimized for the best possible outcome. This preparation phase includes diagnostic testing, medication adjustments, and detailed pre-surgical planning to minimize risks and maximize success.
Carotid ultrasound and CT angiography to assess blockage severity and anatomy
Blood work and cardiac evaluation to confirm you're ready for the procedure
Starting antiplatelet medications like aspirin and Plavix 5-7 days before surgery
Fasting instructions starting midnight before your procedure
TCAR is performed through a small incision just above your collarbone, using innovative flow reversal technology to protect your brain during treatment. The procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes and is done under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia based on your specific needs.
Small incision made above the collarbone for direct carotid artery access
Flow reversal system temporarily redirects blood away from the brain
Stent placement to open the blocked artery and restore healthy blood flow
Neuroprotection filter captures any debris before blood returns to your body
Most patients spend just one night in the hospital after TCAR and experience significantly faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. You’ll be closely monitored immediately after the procedure, and our care team will provide detailed instructions for your recovery at home.
Overnight hospital stay with regular monitoring of vital signs and neurological function
Mild neck soreness or bruising that typically resolves within a few days
Return to light activities within 24 hours and normal activities within one week
Restrictions on heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 7-10 days
Comprehensive follow-up care ensures your stent continues working properly and helps prevent future strokes. Our team will monitor your progress through scheduled imaging, medication management, and lifestyle counseling to maintain optimal vascular health for years to come.
Carotid ultrasound at 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, and annually thereafter
Continued antiplatelet therapy and statin medications to prevent complications
Cardiovascular risk factor management including blood pressure and cholesterol control
Lifestyle modifications including heart-healthy diet, exercise, and smoking cessation
Personalized Approach
We start with medical management and lifestyle changes for early-stage disease. When blockages grow more serious, we discuss whether TCAR suits your situation. This includes talking through the risks, what you can expect to gain from the procedure and when it makes sense to move forward based on your stroke risk and overall health.
Appropriate Therapies
Our vascular surgeons use ultrasound and other imaging to measure how severe your carotid narrowing has become. Based on those findings, along with your medical history and anatomy, we recommend either TCAR, traditional endarterectomy, or continued medical management. The goal is treatment that fits your specific needs.
Comprehensive Care
You get all your care through one program, from the initial evaluation through treatment and follow-up visits. We use accredited testing methods to get accurate measurements of your blockage. After TCAR, structured monitoring helps us catch any issues early and keep your vascular health on track.
I was dealing with varicose veins for years, and the pain had started to affect my daily life. I came across Prime Vascular Care and I’m so glad I did. Dr. Akinrinlola and his team were incredibly thorough in explaining my treatment options. The procedure was quick and nearly painless, and I’ve noticed a huge difference in how my legs feel. I’m finally able to enjoy activities I couldn’t before. Highly recommend Prime Vascular Care to anyone needing vascular treatment in Virginia!
After being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis, I was worried about my future health. Dr. Akinrinlola explained everything clearly and gave me confidence that I was in great hands. The team at Prime Vascular Care not only treated my condition effectively but also made me feel supported every step of the way. I’ve since made a full recovery and can’t thank them enough for their expert care.
I had been suffering from peripheral artery disease for some time, and I felt like I had no options left. Prime Vascular Care was recommended to me, and I’m so grateful I made the appointment. The treatment plan was tailored to my specific needs, and Dr. Akinrinlola’s expertise really put me at ease. My circulation has improved dramatically, and I feel so much better. I can walk without pain again, and it’s all thanks to the excellent care I received.
I was referred to Prime Vascular Care for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, and I was nervous about the procedure. Dr. Akinrinlola took the time to explain everything in detail, and his confidence really helped calm my fears. The surgery was a success, and I’m now recovering well. I can’t express how much I appreciate the professionalism and kindness of the entire team. They truly care about their patients’ well-being.
Office Hours
Monday
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST
Tuesday
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST
Wednesday
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST
Thursday
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST
Friday
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST
Sat & Sun
Closed
Book An Appointment
Yes, TCAR has FDA approval and Medicare covers it for patients who meet the medical criteria for carotid artery treatment. Most major insurance plans also provide coverage. Our billing team checks your specific coverage and handles the authorization paperwork to help reduce what you pay out of pocket.
Most people leave our practice within 24 hours. You can usually get back to light activities in a few days. Returning to your full routine (including work and exercise) typically takes one to two weeks. That recovery time is considerably faster than what traditional open carotid surgery requires.
TCAR uses a smaller neck incision and includes flow reversal technology that protects your brain from plaque debris while we place the stent. Compared to carotid endarterectomy (CEA), TCAR causes less invasion to your body, carries lower cranial nerve injury risk, requires shorter hospital stays and offers faster recovery for high-risk patients.
TCAR brings fewer risks than traditional carotid surgery, but all vascular procedures carry some level of risk. Possible complications include stroke (less than 2% chance), bleeding, infection, heart problems, or blood pressure changes. Our vascular team takes extensive precautions to minimize these risks and the flow reversal technology specifically reduces stroke risk during the procedure.
You might qualify for TCAR if you have significant carotid artery blockage (typically 70% or greater stenosis) along with certain high-risk features. These include previous neck surgery or radiation, anatomical challenges, severe heart or lung disease, or advanced age. Our vascular surgeons perform a comprehensive evaluation with imaging studies to determine whether TCAR or CEA makes the most sense for your situation.
At Prime Vascular Care, we prioritize your well-being with compassionate, patient-centered treatment and clinical excellence.
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