FullBlock-Assisted Percutaneous Carotid Artery Revascularization: A Novel Approach for Enhanced Neuroprotection

This report describes a first-in-human case of percutaneous carotid artery revascularization (PCAR) using FullBlock, a neuroprotective system that consists of a dual-occlusion balloon and reverse-flow neuroprotective system. The patient was a 77-year-old woman with severe left internal carotid artery stenosis and multiple cardiovascular comorbidities. She was deemed unsuitable for carotid endarterectomy. PCAR with stenting was performed successfully with general anesthesia. Neuroprotection depended on controllable reverse hemodynamics established with the femoral vein and communicating intracranial arteries. Atherosclerotic plaques were filtered in the extra-anatomic reverse flow tube. One-month follow-up was favorable. This case demonstrates the feasibility of FullBlock-assisted PCAR with stenting as a promising alternative for high-risk patients. Transradial and femoral access can be avoided, adding potential benefits of reduced operative complexity and enhanced neuroprotection.