Endovascular stenting in malignant obstruction of superior vena cava

Single-Setting Superior Vena Cava Biopsy and Stenting Utilizing Cone Beam Computed Tomography as an Additional Tool

BACKGROUND Malignant disease is a common etiology of superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS). Being a medical emergency, it often requires rapid diagnostic evaluation and therapy. Transcaval biopsy and endovascular stenting in a single-setting has been described, but only in a handful of cases. These cases utilized intra-operative venograms. In this study, we also used intra-operative cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to increase the safety and efficacy of such single-setting procedures. CASE REPORT From January 2017 to July 2019, there were 5 patients with malignant SVCS who underwent single-setting superior vena cava biopsy and endovascular stenting utilizing intra-operative CBCT as an adjunct. Demographic data, clinical presentation, investigation results, procedural details, and patient outcomes were recorded. CBCT was utilized in all cases to optimize sampling of biopsies, visualize subsequent stent positioning, and for early detection of procedure-related complications. Transcaval biopsy was diagnostic in 4 of the 5 patients. Endovascular stents were deployed successfully in all cases, with post-stenting venogram demonstrating relief of prior obstructed segments. One patient had a complication of an apical pneumothorax, with no associated long-term pneumothorax-related morbidity or mortality. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that single-setting transcaval biopsy and stenting in the context of malignant SVCS is a cost-efficient, safe, and feasible approach. In addition, the additional use of intra-operative CBCT is a useful tool to increase procedure efficacy and safety.

Endovascular stent-based revascularization of malignant superior vena cava syndrome with concomitant implantation of a port device using a dual venous approach

PURPOSE

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of endovascular revascularization of malignant superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) and simultaneous implantation of a totally implantable venous access port (TIVAP) using a dual venous approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospectively, 31 patients (mean age 67 ± 8 years) with malignant CVO who had undergone revascularization by implantation of a self-expanding stent into the superior vena cava (SVC) (Sinus XL®, OptiMed, Germany; n = 11 [Group1] and Protégé ™ EverFlex, Covidien, Ireland; n = 20 [Group 2]) via a transfemoral access were identified. Simultaneously, percutaneous access via a subclavian vein was used to (a) probe the lesion from above, (b) facilitate a through-and-through maneuver, and (c) implant a TIVAP. Primary endpoints with regard to the SVC syndrome were technical (residual stenosis < 30%) and clinical (relief of symptoms) success; with regard to TIVAP implantation technical success was defined as positioning of the functional catheter within the SVC. Secondary endpoints were complications as well as stent and TIVAP patency.

RESULTS

Technical and clinical success rate were 100% for revascularization of the SVS and 100% for implantation of the TIVAP. One access site hematoma (minor complication, day 2) and one port-catheter-associated sepsis (major complication, day 18) were identified. Mean catheter days were 313 ± 370 days. Mean imaging follow-up was 184 ± 172 days. Estimated patency rates at 3, 6, and 12 months were 100% in Group 1 and 84, 84, and 56% in Group 2 (p = 0.338).

CONCLUSION

Stent-based revascularization of malignant SVCS with concomitant implantation of a port device using a dual venous approach appears to be safe and effective.

Review of evolving etiologies, implications and treatment strategies for the superior vena cava syndrome

Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is a relatively common sequela of mediastinal malignancies and may cause significant patient distress. SVCS is a medical emergency if associated with laryngeal or cerebral edema. The etiologies and management of SVCS have evolved over time. Non-malignant SVCS is typically caused by infectious etiologies or by thrombus in the superior vena cava and can be managed with antibiotics or anti-coagulation therapy, respectively. Radiation therapy (RT) has long been a mainstay of treatment of malignant SVCS. Chemotherapy has also been used to manage SVCS. In the past 20 years, percutaneous stenting of the superior vena cava has emerged as a viable option for SVCS symptom palliation. RT and chemotherapy are still the only modalities that can provide curative treatment for underlying malignant etiologies of SVCS. The first experiences with treating SVCS with RT were reported in the 1970’s, and several advances in RT delivery have subsequently occurred. Hypo-fractionated RT has the potential to be a more convenient therapy for patients and may provide equal or superior control of underlying malignancies. RT may be combined with stenting and/or chemotherapy to provide both immediate symptom palliation and long-term disease control. Clinicians should tailor therapy on a case-by-case basis. Multi-disciplinary care will maximize treatment expediency and efficacy.