Dr. Ankur Lodha Is First CIS Physician in Lafayette to Use Innovative TCAR Procedure to Treat Carotid Artery Disease

LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA – Dr. Ankur Lodha is the first interventional cardiologist at Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) in Lafayette to treat carotid artery disease and prevent future strokes using an innovative procedure called TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR). The procedure took place on June 15 in the catheterization laboratory at Ochsner Lafayette General with the assistance of Dr. V. Antoine Keller, cardiovascular surgeon.

TCAR (tee-kahr) is a minimally invasive approach for high-risk patients who need carotid artery treatment. This option lowers stroke and heart attack risk both during and after the procedure, lessens chance of nerve injury, and reduces procedure and recovery time so that patients can return home sooner. TCAR is unique in that the patient’s blood flow is temporarily reversed during the procedure so that any small bits of plaque that may break off are diverted away from the brain, preventing a stroke. A stent is then placed inside the artery to stabilize the plaque, minimizing the risk of a future stroke.

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.

“I am excited to offer this new option in Lafayette for patients with carotid artery disease,” said Dr. Lodha. “Because of its lower stroke risk and faster patient recovery, I believe TCAR is the future of carotid interventions and will greatly benefit our patients.”

The TCAR procedure was developed by Sunnyvale, California-based Silk Road Medical, Inc. Additional information about TCAR is available at www.silkroadmed.com/disease-and-treatment-options.

To schedule an appointment at CIS or find a list of CIS locations, visit www.cardio.com.

About Cardiovascular Institute of the South

Founded by Dr. Craig Walker in 1983, Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) is a world-leader in preventing, detecting and treating cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease. CIS offers a comprehensive heart and vascular program with expert physicians trained in many specialties, including internal medicine, nuclear cardiology, electrophysiology, lipid management, coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, valve disease, venous disease and interventional procedures. CIS has earned international acclaim as a pioneer of research, development and education, as well as an innovator in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease. With a dedicated team of more than 1075 team members, CIS provides comprehensive cardiovascular care at 22 locations across Louisiana and Mississippi, with 10 telemedicine programs. CIS has also been recognized by Modern Healthcare as a Best Place to Work in Healthcare for three years in a row. CIS remains at the forefront of technology, providing the highest-quality, compassionate care. This mission has guided the institute for more than 38 years of excellence. For more information about CIS, call 1-800-425-2565 or visit www.cardio.com.