Every Second Counts When It Comes to Stroke.
Nationwide, hospitals are experiencing a 40% decline in the number of patients receiving evaluations for acute stroke (source). Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important for stroke patients to get care as soon as possible to improve their chance of survival. According to the American Stroke Association, 80 percent of strokes are preventable – and a large percentage of the ones that happen are treatable with the right care, right away.
With carotid artery disease estimated to be the source of stroke in up to a third of cases, it is imperative not to delay care for people living with this disease. Pima Heart and Vascular physicians offer patients minimally invasive options such as TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) to prevent future strokes with a faster recovery time.
Charles West took action to protect his health.
Charles West received the TransCarotid Artery Revascularization procedure for the treatment of his blocked carotid artery.
After proactive monitoring of a blocked carotid artery, it was recommended by his vascular surgeon to have the TCAR procedure to minimize his stroke risk.
“Dr. Balderman made me feel safe about getting treatment. Everybody at the hospital took precautions,” he says. Charles didn’t hesitate in waiting to get the TCAR procedure done and increase his chance of getting a stroke. “The procedure went very well and I can hardly even notice the scar,” says West.
West is back to living his active life and walks most days of the week.
Prior to TCAR, the main treatment option for severe carotid artery disease was an open surgical procedure called carotid endarterectomy (CEA). CEA removes plaque from inside the carotid artery to restore normal blood flow to the brain, but the large incision leaves a visible scar the length of the neck and carries risks of surgical complications, including bleeding, infection, heart attack and cranial nerve injuries that can cause issues with swallowing, speaking and sensation in the face.
TCAR provides low-risk option for carotid artery repair.
“We are taking every precaution to ensure the safety of our patients during this pandemic, and TCAR is an important patient option in the fight against stroke,” says Dr. Balderman. “Because of its low stroke risk and faster patient recovery, I believe TCAR represents the future of carotid repair.”
“Don’t delay the care you deserve any longer and talk to your doctor about the risk factors and if you should be screened for carotid artery disease,” says Dr. Balderman.