• 1840 Mease Drive, Suite 319, Safety Harbor, Florida 34695
  • Mon - Fri: 8:00am - 5:00pm

Under the expert guidance of our Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, Dr. Mark Zuzga, our team of Vein Specialists & Vascular Experts are committed to delivering top-tier outpatient vascular & vein evaluation and treatment throughout the greater Tampa & West Florida surrounding areas. Should you find yourself dealing with leg pain, swelling, ulcers, discoloration, or the appearance of spider and varicose veins, we invite you to request a screening today

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Office Hours

Mon - Fri:8:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday:Office Closed
Sunday:Office Closed
+(727) 712-3233
info@wfvav.com

Carotid Artery Surgery

Tampa Carotid Artery Surgery Treatment

Our Treatment Procedures Promotes Optimal Cerebral Circulation, Averting the Risk of Stroke

Carotid artery surgery, or carotid endarterectomy, is a critical medical procedure designed to prevent stroke by restoring healthy blood flow to the brain. The surgery involves making an incision along the neck, opening the carotid artery, and removing the plaques that are obstructing circulation. This surgical intervention is essential as the carotid arteries are responsible for supplying blood to our brain and face, playing a pivotal role in our overall health and well-being. In the United States, thousands of people are affected by carotid artery disease each year, necessitating this life-saving operation. With significant advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques, the success rate of carotid artery surgery has been commendably high, contributing to a decrease in stroke incidences and enhancing patients’ quality of life.

The TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) Procedure
Carotid artery disease is a significant health concern that has shockingly led to over 130,000 fatalities. Renowned as one of Tampa’s leading vascular surgeons, Dr. Mark Zuzga urges anyone with substantial blockage to pursue immediate medical attention. This urgency is due to the potentially life-threatening outcomes if the disease is not promptly addressed. Consequently, we provide cutting-edge treatments for carotid artery disease like TCAR, which come with the following advantages:
  • Minimally Invasive: Carotid Artery Surgery can be performed using minimally invasive techniques. Transcarotid Artery Revascularization is one such approach, where a small incision is made just above the collarbone to provide direct access to the blocked carotid artery. This approach not only reduces the risk of stroke but also allows for quicker recovery times and less pain compared to traditional open surgical procedures. As a result, TCAR has become an increasingly popular treatment option for severe carotid artery disease.
  • Latest Technology: Our laboratory is equipped with the most advanced technology in the vascular industry, ensuring precise diagnosis and effective treatment of arterial disease. As a result of our expertise in the field, we are able to perform minimally invasive procedures that typically do not necessitate an overnight stay in the hospital
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What Is TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR)?

TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) is a clinically proven, minimally invasive procedure used to treat carotid artery disease, which can help prevent future strokes. The process begins with:

  1. Pre-Procedure Preparation: Before the procedure begins, the patient is usually placed under general anesthesia. However, some surgeons may choose local anesthesia with sedation depending on the patient’s health status.
  2. Incision: The surgeon makes a small incision at the base of the neck, just above the collarbone, providing direct access to the carotid artery.
  3. Insertion of Sheaths: A puncture is made into the carotid artery, and a small tube (sheath) is inserted. This sheath is connected to a system that will temporarily reverse the blood flow in the carotid artery.
  4. Reversal of Blood Flow: Once the sheath is in place, the system begins to divert blood away from the brain to protect it from any plaque that might dislodge during the procedure. The blood is filtered and returned through a second tube inserted into a vein in the patient’s thigh.
  5. Plaque Removal and Stent Placement: While the blood flow is reversed, the surgeon inserts a catheter through the initial tube in the carotid artery. A small balloon at the end of the catheter is inflated to open the artery, and a stent is then placed to hold the artery open.
  6. Restoration of Normal Blood Flow: After the stent is in place, the balloon is deflated and removed, and the blood flow is turned back to its normal direction. The brain is now receiving blood through the newly opened carotid artery.
  7. Closure: The sheaths are removed, and the small incision is closed.
  8. Post-Surgery: After the procedure, the patient is monitored in a recovery room for any potential complications. Most patients can expect to go home the next day and resume normal activities soon after.
We take pride at West Florida Vein & Vascular for having one of the leading vascular surgeons in the Tampa Bay region, Dr. Mark Zuzga. He offers one of the safest and most effective treatments for carotid artery disease, comparable to the best available nationwide.

Why The TCAR Procedure Can Be Ideal For You

Less invasive, quicker recovery times and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional surgical methods

It’s important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee that you will develop spider veins, but it does increase your chances.

(TCAR) offers numerous advantages to patients, making it a preferred treatment option for carotid artery disease. This translates into better patient satisfaction by the following:

  • Being safer & significantly reducing the risk of complications such as nerve injuries.
  • It’s particularly beneficial for patients at high surgical risk due to age, medical comorbidities, or anatomical issues.
  • Reduces stroke risk, which ranges between 0.6% -1.4%, as it diverts any plaque away from the brain during the procedure.
  • Additionally, TCAR provides a safer method for carotid artery stenting, enhancing patient outcomes.
  • Overall, TCAR’s innovative approach allows surgeons to provide superior patient care, making it an effective first-line therapy for carotid revascularization.

Carotid artery surgery, including procedures like carotid endarterectomy and TCAR, can be associated with some discomfort, but it’s important to note that pain levels can vary between individuals based on personal factors and the specifics of the surgery.

During the procedure itself, patients are typically under general anesthesia or local anesthesia, which means they are either asleep or the area being operated on is numbed. Therefore, they don’t feel pain during the surgery

Postoperatively, patients can expect some soreness and swelling around the incision site in the neck. This discomfort usually lasts for about a week and can be managed effectively with painkillers

Some patients may also experience numbness along the jaw and near the earlobe due to the incision, but this typically resolves within 6 to 12 months

As with any surgical procedure, it’s important for patients to discuss pain management strategies and potential complications with Dr. Zuzga and the West Florida Vein & Vascular team.

In the event that Dr. Zuzga concludes that minimally invasive procedures are not feasible, he may opt to carry out a carotid endarterectomy (CEA). During this procedure, plaque is physically excised from the obstructed carotid artery via a minor skin incision. CEA is considered a traditional form of open surgery.

Contact Our Tampa Vascular Surgery Center Today

Ready to get started? Opting for carotid artery treatments like TCAR is indeed a pivotal first step towards regaining your health and longevity. It’s a significant stride towards restoring the health of your vascular system. Moreover, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of undergoing a vascular ultrasound, an instrumental tool in detecting and monitoring the progress of carotid artery disease. Ignoring symptoms could lead to severe complications or even fatal consequences. Taking charge of your health today can create a healthier and longer future, so don’t delay in seeking the medical attention you deserve. Your health and well-being are worth it.  
With the right medical team by your side and a personalized treatment plan in place, you’re on the best path towards a healthier, more active lifestyle. Dr. Mark Zuzga, D.O., is here to help you navigate this journey towards relief. With his extensive experience and compassionate approach, he is committed to providing effective treatments tailored to your unique needs. Don’t wait for the pain to dictate your life. Reach out to schedule a consultation with Dr. Zuzga today, and take the first step towards reclaiming your health and well-being.
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Contact Us

No one needs to suffer from untreated varicose vein disease or arterial related diseases anymore. In addition, with today’s favorable insurance coverage, the procedures are even more accessible. If you have a vein problem, contact us today.

Telephone: (727) 712-3233
Facsimile: (727) 712-1853
Email: Contact Us Online

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