Carotid artery disease affects millions of people. Plaque buildup reduces blood flow to the brain and can cause a stroke. The standard, risky procedure is to introduce a stent via the femoral artery in the groin or open artery surgery. Now, the Enroute Transcarotid Neuroprotection System offers a better alternative. A small incision is made in the neck for introduction of a catheter, then the carotid artery is tied below the incision to reverse blood flow. Stents and artery clearing can then be done. Because the blood is flowing in reverse there is no risk of plaque breaking free and going to the brain. Instead, the blood and plaque flow out of the body through the Enroute system, and back into the femoral artery. Enroute captures the plaque in its filter so only clean blood goes back into the body. Enroute also provides protection for the patient’s brain during the entire procedure.