Genesis First in Region to Perform Innovative Procedure

Zanesville, Ohio (Oct. 8) - Genesis HealthCare System's vascular surgery team recently started performing the TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) procedure. TCAR is a less-invasive method for treating carotid artery disease where plaque builds up in one or both neck arteries and can cause strokes.

"With the addition of TCAR, we have yet another innovative procedure to reduce stroke risk. Stroke impacts approximately 800,000 Americans each year and is the fifth-highest killer in the United States. TCAR is revolutionary because it enables us to reverse blood flow temporarily, and filter plaque particles before they reach the brain, minimizing risks during the procedure," said Michael Kunstmann, D.O., fellowship-trained and board-certified vascular surgeon.

During the procedure, a small incision is made in the neck. A tube is inserted into the carotid artery and connected to equipment to direct blood flow away from the brain temporarily. The blood is filtered before returning to a vein in the groin. In addition to fewer risks during the TCAR procedure, a smaller incision is used to reduce scarring and procedure time is less than half compared to carotid endarterectomy. Most patients return home the day after the procedure.