Harlingen (Texas) Medical Center recently performed its 50th transcarotid artery revascularization procedure, MyRGVNews reported March 6.
The procedure used to treat carotid artery disease briefly reverses the direction of blood flow away from the brain while the physician operates, reducing the patient's risk of stroke during the procedure. It's intended for older adults.
"Anybody over 75 is considered at high risk for ordinary surgery and anesthesia, so they would be a good candidate for that procedure," Shereef Hilmy, MD, chief of cardiology and director of the cardiac catheterization laboratory, told MyRGVNews.