During what he thought was a routine visit, Geofildo Bracho’s carotid artery was found to be 85% blocked due to carotid stenosis. A condition that significantly increases the risk of stroke and often requires timely surgical intervention.
Geofildo was referred to HCA Houston Healthcare Medical Center, where he came under the care of Kristofer M. Charlton-Ouw, MD, Medical Director of Vascular Surgery. After a comprehensive evaluation of his anatomy, medical history and stroke risk, Dr. Charlton-Ouw recommended Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR), a minimally invasive approach designed to reduce stroke risk for patients with carotid artery stenosis.
“TCAR is an advanced option for patients who may not be ideal candidates for traditional carotid surgery,” said Dr. Charlton-Ouw. “By temporarily reversing blood flow away from the brain during stent placement, we can significantly lower the chance of debris causing a stroke while still effectively restoring blood flow.”
During the procedure, a small incision was made near Geofildo’s collarbone to access the carotid artery. Using a sophisticated neuroprotection system, blood flow was briefly redirected away from the brain while plaque was stabilized with a stent. This approach combines the durability of surgical repair with the benefits of a less invasive technique, allowing for shorter recovery time, smaller incisions, and reduced procedural risk for select patients.
Following surgery, Geofildo was closely monitored as part of the hospital’s comprehensive post vascular care program. During his recovery, he experienced bradycardia, a slower than normal heart rate, which can occasionally occur following carotid interventions due to the artery’s role in regulating cardiovascular reflexes. The care team responded promptly, implementing careful monitoring and mobility strategies to support safe recovery.
That’s when his nurse, Christal, noticed something special.
Learning that Geofildo and his wife shared a love of dancing, she saw an opportunity to transform early mobility therapy into something uplifting and personal. With his favorite music playing, including the upbeat rhythms of “Suavemente”, Christal encouraged Mr. Bracho to march, turn and step to the beat. The gentle dancing movements helped Geofildo stimulate his heart rate, improve balance, and build confidence as he regained strength.
The scene quickly became a moment of joy on the unit. Other patients, families and staff paused to watch, cheer and smile as Geofildo danced alongside his wife, proof that healing is just as emotional as it is physical.
Geofildo reflected on the experience, saying, “It feels wonderful to dance to the music I love because it helps me relax and makes me feel like myself again.”
Today, Geofildo is back on his feet, grateful for the expert care that helped protect his health and for the compassionate team that reminded him to keep moving, smiling and dancing forward.
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For more than 45 years, HCA Houston Healthcare Medical Center has served Houston’s world-class Museum District and surrounding communities. Today, we are a boutique surgical hospital emphasizing heart care and heart surgery. Our heart specialists effectively diagnose and treat a wide range of cardiovascular diseases and disorders. Learn more about our cardiology services and find a doctor.