How the TCAR Procedure Helped a Local Man Stay One Step Ahead of a Stroke

How the TCAR Procedure Helped a Local Man Stay One Step Ahead of a Stroke

Raymond Hogan, an 81-year-old grandfather and longtime resident of Metairie, has been a patient of Gary Menszer, MD, an interventional cardiologist at East Jefferson General Hospital, for 10 years. A decade ago, Raymond had some stents inserted and has been on a regular follow-up schedule with him since then.

This past February, Dr. Menszer had some concerns about Raymond going into congestive heart failure.

Raymond described hearing a “swooshing” sound in his heart. The sensation is often caused by turbulent blood flow, which can occur when arteries narrow or heart valves don’t function properly. Although the swooshing itself isn’t a sign of stroke, it can signal underlying conditions that increase stroke risk.

Dr. Menszer ordered a carotid ultrasound, which revealed a significant blockage on the left side of Raymond’s neck. A CAT scan confirmed that the artery was 70% blocked.

“Dr. Menszer told me I had three options: medication, carotid endarterectomy, or TransCartoid Artery Revascularization (TCAR),” said Raymond. “I was already taking medication that wiped me out, and I really didn’t want to have surgery, so I was strongly considering the TCAR.”

After thoroughly discussing his options with Dr. Menszer and Harry Roach, MD, a thoracic and cardiac surgeon at East Jefferson, Raymond decided that the TCAR was the best route for him.

A Closer Look at TCAR

TCAR is an advanced, less invasive procedure designed to lower the risk of stroke in patients with severe carotid artery blockages. Using a small incision near the base of the neck, surgeons access the carotid artery and temporarily reverse blood flow to help prevent plaque from reaching the brain. Once the area is secure, a stent is placed to open the artery and restore proper blood flow.

“TCAR has become an increasingly popular option for patients who aren’t well-suited for open surgery,” said Dr. Menszer. “Unlike traditional carotid endarterectomy, TCAR requires only a small incision, carries a lower risk of stroke during the procedure, and allows for a quicker recovery. It’s often the preferred approach for high-risk individuals, particularly older adults or those with underlying heart or lung conditions.”

On April 2, 2025, Dr. Menszer performed the procedure on Raymond. He was Dr. Menszer’s 102nd TCAR patient.

It went well, and Raymond was discharged the next day. Although he experienced some minor side effects – including bleeding related to taking blood thinners—he has since had a solid recovery.

Moving Forward After TCAR

A week after the TCAR procedure, Raymond underwent a follow-up echocardiogram that showed his stent was functioning properly.

Today, Raymond is back to enjoying his life. He stays active at home with a stationary bike and treadmill and enjoys spending time with his three grandsons and great-grandchild. Though he’s had two hip replacements and deals with some back issues, he says his mobility is good, and his energy level is up.

He credits the excellent care he received at East Jefferson—especially the professionalism of the surgical team and the comfort of the hospital’s facilities—for making the experience positive. But above all, Raymond says, he’s grateful to Drs. Menszer and Roach.

“Dr. Menszer saved my life,” he said. “And Dr. Roach had a wonderful way of relating to me. Together, they helped me make the right choice.”

Raymond hopes that by sharing his experience, others will view TCAR not simply as an alternative to medication or open surgery, but as a proactive way to preserve their health and quality of life.

For more information about Heart and Vascular Care services at East Jefferson, visit Heart and Vascular Care | East Jefferson General Hospital.

.