Superior vena cava syndrome. Experience with endovascular stents and surgical therapy

Difficult Vascular Access in Children with Short Bowel Syndrome: What to Do Next?

Short Bowel Syndrome and intestinal failure are chronic and severe conditions that may require life-long parenteral nutrition in children. Survival of these children rely on the correct functioning of central venous catheters; therefore, careful management, prevention, and treatment of complications is of paramount importance. Despite a growing awareness of preserving the vascular real estate, a certain number of patients still experience a progressive and life-threatening exhaustion of vascular access. We searched the literature to highlight the current management of children with vascular exhaustion, specifically focusing on vascular access salvage strategies and last-resource alternative routes to central veins. Given the paucity of data, results are reported in the form of a narrative review.

Superior Vena Cava Syndrome in Conjunction with Pulmonary Vasculature Compromise: A Case Study and Literature Review

Patient: Male, 61

Final Diagnosis: SVC syndrome

Symptoms: Dyspnea

Medication: —

Clinical Procedure: —

Specialty: Oncology

Thrombogenic superior vena cava syndrome from long-standing central venous access in a 5-year-old patient treated with balloon-expandable stents

Thrombogenic superior vena cava syndrome is an uncommon, dangerous complication of long-standing central venous catheter use. The increased use of central venous catheters has resulted in more non-malignant cases of superior vena cava syndrome across all age groups. We present a 5-year-old male with superior vena cava syndrome associated with acute onset of severe upper extremity and facial swelling, dyspnea, and a right subclavian central venous catheter malfunction. The patient was ultimately treated with percutaneous stenting of the superior vena cava with balloon-expandable Palmaz stents following unsuccessful angioplasty, catheter-directed thrombolysis, and percutaneous thrombectomy. This case highlights a relatively uncommon complication in children from long-term central venous catheter access and describes an emerging, minimally-invasive therapeutic alternative that allows for preservation of age-appropriate superior vena cava luminal diameter as patients grow.

Comparison of Covered Versus Uncovered Stents for Benign Superior Vena Cava (SVC) Obstruction

PURPOSE

To identify whether long-term symptom relief and stent patency vary with the use of covered versus uncovered stents for the treatment of benign SVC obstruction.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We retrospectively identified all patients with benign SVC syndrome treated to stent placement between January 2003 and December 2015 (n = 59). Only cases with both clinical and imaging follow-up were included (n = 47). In 33 (70%) of the patients, the obstruction was due to a central line or pacemaker wires, and in 14 (30%), the cause was fibrosing mediastinitis. Covered stents were placed in 17 (36%) of the patients, and 30 (64%) patients had an uncovered stent. Clinical and treatment outcomes, complications, and the percent stenosis of each stent were evaluated.

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in all cases at first attempt. Average clinical and imaging follow-up in years was 2.7 (range 0.1-11.1) (covered) and 1.7 (range 0.2-10.5) (uncovered), respectively. There was a significant difference (p = 0.044) in the number of patients who reported a return of symptoms between the covered (5/17 or 29.4%) and uncovered (18/30 or 60%) groups. There was also a significant difference (p = < 0.001) in the mean percent stenosis after stent placement between the covered [17.9% (range 0-100) ± 26.2] and uncovered [48.3% (range 6.8-100) ± 33.5] groups. No significant difference (p = 0.227) was found in the time (days) between the date of the procedure and the date of clinical follow-up where a return of symptoms was reported [covered: 426.6 (range 28-1554) ± 633.9 and uncovered 778.1 (range 23-3851) ± 1066.8]. One patient in the uncovered group had non-endovascular surgical intervention (innominate to right atrial bypass), while none in the covered group required surgical intervention. One major complication (SIR grade C) occurred that consisted of a pericardial hemorrhagic effusion after angioplasty that required covered stent placement. There were no procedure-related deaths.

CONCLUSION

Both covered and uncovered stents can be used for treating benign SVC syndrome. Covered stents, however, may be a more effective option at providing symptom relief and maintaining stent patency if validated by further studies.

Primary Stenting Is Not Necessary in Benign Central Venous Stenosis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to evaluate central venous stenosis (CVS) etiologies and presentation within a vascular surgery practice. We evaluated endovascular treatment modalities and the patency rates of our interventions.

METHODS

Five-year retrospective review of endovascular intervention for CVS. Patient demographics, medical comorbidities, and variables were collected including etiology, indwelling device, previous upper extremity (UE) deep venous thrombosis, long-term UE indwelling device (defined as >30 days), malignancy status, hypercoagulable disorders, history of radiation or mediastinal fibrosis or masses, and anticoagulation and/or antiplatelet therapy. Follow-up variables included symptoms, imaging, and anticoagulation and/or antiplatelet utilization. Living patients without recent follow-up were contacted with a telephone survey regarding current symptoms. Patency was evaluated by imaging or clinically by recurrence of signs or symptoms through January 2016.

RESULTS

A total of 61 patients underwent attempted endovascular CVS interventions from January 2007 to 2013. Forty-seven (83%) patients had successful interventions. There were 22 (36%) end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. The primary etiology in 79% of patients was benign CVS secondary to an indwelling device. Eighty-nine percent of the interventions were primary angioplasty (PTA). The overall primary patency rates at 6, 12, and 24 months were 49%, 34%, and 24%, respectively. Secondary patency rates at 6, 12, and 24 months were 97%, 93%, and 88%, respectively. There were no statistical differences in demographics or outcomes in patients treated successfully with PTA or those requiring stenting. There was no statistical difference in the patency rates between ESRD and non-ESRD patients. Previous interventions were not a predictor of loss of patency.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study supported the rising trend of benign CVS predominantly secondary to indwelling devices. We demonstrated acceptable secondary patency with PTA alone. This study adds further support for a primary angioplasty strategy in treating benign CVS. The optimal endovascular treatment for benign CVS is still undefined.

Superior Vena Cava Rupture Caused During Balloon Dilation for Treatment of SVC Syndrome Due to Repetitive Catheter Ablation

A 29-year-old woman with an implanted AAI mode permanent pacemaker, who had undergone catheter ablation for inappropriate sinus tachycardia 4 times, experienced complications of superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome. Severe stenosis of the SVC wall was observed in computed tomograms. During balloon dilation for the treatment of SVC syndrome, the SVC was ruptured, resulting in cardiac tamponade. An emergency operation was performed using percutaneous cardiopulmonary support (PCPS). A longitudinal tear 1 cm in length was identified at the junction of the right atrium and the SVC, requiring a patch plasty using an autologous pericardium 2.5 cm x 3 cm in size.

SVC rupture is a complication to be completely avoided when we perform balloon dilation for the treatment of SVC syndrome. Therefore, the indication of balloon dilation for the treatment of SVC syndrome requires critical examination and attention.

Case report of fatal complication of superior vena cava tear from balloon dilatation of iatrogenic superior vena cava narrowing

The treatment options for superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction depends on the cause and severity of SVC narrowing. It ranges from conservative medical management to more elaborate endovascular and surgical repair of obstruction. There has always been a concern regarding the possibility of rupture of SVC during balloon dilatation, if the obstruction is secondary to the surgical cause. Very few cases are reported in the literature. We report a case of fatal complication of SVC tear in a 2-month-old child who had iatrogenic SVC narrowing.

Managing central venous obstruction in cystic fibrosis recipients--lung transplant considerations

BACKGROUND

The superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients is rare, but presents unique challenges in the peri-transplant period. We reviewed our experience of SVC syndrome in CF recipients undergoing lung transplantation.

METHODS

This is a retrospective case series from a single center chart-review. SVC obstruction is defined by clinically significant stenosis or obstruction of the SVC as detected by contrast studies.

RESULTS

We identified SVC obstruction in seven post-transplant cases and one pre-transplant case. All eight patients had previous or current history of indwelling central venous catheters. Three recipients experienced operative complications. Five of the seven recipients suffered at least one episode of post-operative SVC obstruction or bleeding despite prophylactic anticoagulation. At a median follow-up of 29 months, six of the seven patients transplanted are well.

CONCLUSIONS

Strategies are available to minimize the risks of intra/peri-operative acute life-threatening SVC obstruction in CF patients.

Palliative procedures in lung cancer

Palliative care aims to optimize comfort and function when cure is not possible. Image-guided interventions for palliative treatment of lung cancer is aimed at local control of advanced disease in the affected lung, adjacent mediastinal structures, or distant metastatic sites. These procedures include endovascular therapy for superior vena cava syndrome, bronchial artery embolization for hemoptysis associated with lung cancer, and ablation of osseous metastasis. Pathophysiology, clinical presentation, indications of these palliative treatments, procedural techniques, complications, and possible future interventions are discussed in this article.

[Effectiveness of endovascular prostheses as initial treatment for superior vena cava syndrome of malignant cause]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is caused by venous return obstruction often originated by an invading mediastinal tumour. Our objective was to evaluate the usefulness of stents as initial treatment for SVCS of malignant origin.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From December 1996 to August 2010, 120 patients with SVCS were referred for percutaneous treatment. Seventy-six were under oncological follow-up cases and in 44 cases the tumour was unknown. A non-concurrent prospective study was made of 113 patients without prior chemotherapy or radiotherapy, who opted for endovascular treatment as first option.

RESULTS

One hundred and two men and 11 women were treated, mean age 61.18 years old (range 45-85). SVCS causes included lung cancer (100), lung metastases (6), compression by enlarged lymph nodes (6), and an embryonic tumour. One hundred and fifty-five prostheses were implanted. One stent was enough in 75 patients, 2 stents in 34, and 3 in 4. Technical success rate was 98.2%. Symptoms disappeared completely in 97 patients and partially in 13. Complications were stent migration (5), epistaxis (1), and post-procedure groin hematoma (1). Seventy-three asymptomatic patients had a mean survival of 210 days (75% primary permeability and 52.9% secondary permeability).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of stents in malignant SVCS is a safe and effective procedure for venous obstruction, leading to the immediate disappearance of symptoms, allowing the underlying tumour staging, facilitating the establishment of the best treatment and improving life quality.

Obstruction of the superior vena cava after neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: association with chylothorax and outcome of transcatheter treatment

BACKGROUND

Obstruction of the superior vena cava is one of the potential complications of neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Chylothorax is a known complication of surgery involving the thoracic cavity in children, and of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between chylothorax and superior vena cava obstruction after neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Twenty-two patients diagnosed with superior vena cava obstruction at ≤ 6 months of age (median 1.8 months) after neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were compared with a randomly selected cohort of 44 neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients without superior vena cava obstruction. Among patients with superior vena cava obstruction, 18 underwent extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for respiratory disease and four for cardiac insufficiency. Chylothorax was more prevalent among patients with superior vena cava obstruction than controls (odds ratio 9.4 [2.2-40], p = .01) and was associated with extension of obstruction into the left innominate vein. Patients with superior vena cava obstruction were supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for a longer duration than controls. Nineteen patients with superior vena cava obstruction (86%) underwent transcatheter balloon angioplasty and/or stent implantation (median 7 days after diagnosis), which decreased the superior vena cava pressure and superior vena cava-to-right atrium pressure gradient and increased the superior vena cava diameter (all p < 0.001). There were no serious procedural adverse events. Six study patients died within 30 days of the diagnosis of superior vena cava obstruction (including three of nine with chylothorax), which did not differ from controls. During a median follow-up of 2.7 yrs, two additional patients died and nine underwent 14 superior vena cava reinterventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Among neonates treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, superior vena cava obstruction is associated with an increased risk of chylothorax. In neonates with chylothorax after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, evaluation for superior vena cava obstruction may be warranted. Although mortality is high in this population, transcatheter treatment can relieve superior vena cava obstruction and facilitate symptomatic improvement.

A case of a bloated face: SVC syndrome relieved by an endovascular approach

Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome, or obstruction of blood returning from the head and upper extremities, is a syndrome that is rapidly increasing in the cardiovascular patient population due to the increasing use of transvenous devices such as permanent pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), and indwelling venous access devices for hemodialysis. This syndrome in the past has been seen predominately in the cancer population with malignancy being the most common reason for SVC syndrome. The management of this syndrome has largely been with a medical/supportive care approach or with surgical bypass. Given the advancement in the field of endovascular interventions and the increasing expertise in performing these procedures, an endovascular approach to relieving the SVC obstruction is rapidly becoming the treatment of choice for these patients. We describe a case of a patient who had a chronic indwelling port-a-cath who developed SVC syndrome, which was treated with an endovascular approach with stenting of the SVC/brachiocephalic vein junction. 

Endovascular treatment of peripheral vascular disease

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) affects about 27 million people in North America and Europe, accounting for up to 413,000 hospitalizations per year with 88,000 hospitalizations involving the lower extremities and 28,000 involving embolectomy or thrombectomy of lower limb arteries. Many patients are asymptomatic and, among symptomatic patients, atypical symptoms are more common than classic claudication. Peripheral arterial disease also correlates strongly with risk of major cardiovascular events, and patients with PAD have a high prevalence of coexistent coronary and cerebrovascular disease. Because the prevalence of PAD increases progressively with age, PAD is a growing clinical problem due to the increasingly aged population in the United States and other developed countries. Until recently, vascular surgical procedures were the only alternative to medical therapy in such patients. Today, endovascular practice, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty with or without stenting, is used far more frequently for all types of lower extremity occlusive lesions, reflecting the continuing advances in imaging techniques, angioplasty equipment, and endovascular expertise. The role of endovascular intervention in the treatment of limb-threatening ischemia is also expanding, and its promise of limb salvage and symptom relief with reduced morbidity and mortality makes percutaneous transluminal angioplasty/stenting an attractive alternative to surgery and, as most endovascular interventions are performed on an outpatient basis, hospital costs are cut considerably. In this monograph we discuss current endovascular intervention for treatment of occlusive PAD, aneurysmal arterial disease, and venous occlusive disease.

Combined endovascular and surgical recanalization after central venous catheter-related obstructions

Central venous occlusion in children is a challenging problem that can occur after a central venous catheter insertion. Long-term catheter-related complications include sepsis and venous thrombosis with consequent loss of central access. We describe 2 cases of children younger than 1 year who were dependent on a central venous catheter for total parenteral nutrition. They developed a chronic extensive obstruction of the right and left brachiocephalic veins with a superior vena cava syndrome. The patients' survival was dependent on the restoration of central venous access until the planned intestinal transplantation could be performed. Retrograde recanalization of the superior vena cava was successfully achieved using a pathway created under general anesthesia from the femoral vein to, respectively, the right thyroid vein and the right subclavian vein.

Percutaneous stenting of superior vena cava syndrome: treatment outcome in patients with benign and malignant etiology

Symptomatic obstruction of the superior vena cava (SVC) can be caused by either intrathoracic malignancy or nonmalignant etiology resulting in superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS). The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of percutaneous stenting of SVCS in patients with malignant and benign disease. During a 9-year period, 56 patients with SVCS underwent percutaneous stenting placement. Among them, malignant and benign disease was responsible for 40 patients (71%) and 16 patients (29%), respectively. The Wallstent was the most commonly used stent and was used in 45 patients (80%), whereas the Palmaz stent was used in 6 patients (11%). In 38 patients (68%), a single stent was deployed to treat an SVC lesion. In contrast, bilateral kissing stents were deployed in 9 patients (16%), which extended from bilateral brachiocephalic veins to the proximal SVC. Technical success was achieved in all patients while symptomatic improvement was noted in 54 patients (96%). No procedural complications occurred in this series. Primary patency in malignant and benign cases at 1 year was 64% and 76%, respectively. Overall symptom-free survival ranged from 1 to 34 months. Our study showed that endovascular treatment with percutaneous stenting provides an effective treatment strategy in patients with SVCS caused by either malignant or benign disease.

Superior vena cava syndrome in children

Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is rare in childhood. 18 cases of SVCS were seen in children ranging from 3-14 years with a mean age of 8.8 years. There were 15 males and 3 female children. Diagnosis could be confirmed in 17 cases as one child succumbed to severe respiratory distress without a definitive diagnosis. The commonest cause of SVCS was lymphoma. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) was more common than Hodgkin's disease. In two cases the final diagnosis was tuberculosis of mediastinal lymph nodes. The diagnosis was confirmed by cervical lymph node biopsy in 6 cases, mediastinal biopsy in 6 cases and bone marrow aspiration in the remaining 5 cases. Intravenous Dexamethasone provided relief of symptoms in 13 patients. None of the children received emergency radiotherapy. Anti-tubercular treatment produced complete cure in the two patients with tubercular mediastinal lymphadenopathy.

Endovascular stenting for the management of port-a-cath associated superior vena cava syndrome

Port-a-cath systems are often essential for the administration of long-term chemotherapy in the treatment of malignancies because they improve venous access, but they are associated with complications, mainly thrombosis of central veins. In the present report, we describe a case of right subclavian and superior vena cava port-a-cath-related thrombosis causing superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) in a patient affected by Hodgkin's disease. The patient underwent percutaneous revascularization with stent positioning, experiencing immediate relief of symptoms. Endovascular procedures for the treatment of nonmalignant SVCS seem to represent a challenging therapeutic option.

Strategies for the Management of SVC Stent Migration into the Right Atrium

PURPOSE

Stent migration into the right atrium is a potentially fatal complication of stenting in the venous system and is most likely to occur during the treatment of superior vena cava obstruction. Endovascular approaches that can salvage this hazardous situation are described and the keys to successful treatment are highlighted.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four different strategies are reviewed: (1) snaring the stent directly, (2) angioplasty balloon-assisted snaring of the stent, (3) guide wire-assisted snaring of the stent, and (4) superior vena cava-to-inferior vena cava bridging stent.

RESULTS

These techniques have been employed in the successful management of four cases. No short- or long-term complications as a result of these maneuvers have been identified. Additional treatment of the underlying disease was possible at the same time in each case.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that prompt management of right atrial stent migration is essential and can be successfully achieved by a variety of "bale-out" techniques which are within the technical range of most interventional radiologists.

Superior vena cava syndrome caused by encircling soft tissue

Superior vena cava syndrome can occur from benign conditions that might not alter life expectancy. Here we present a case of a superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction caused by soft tissue encircling the SVC, which was strongly suspected of being an unusual focal type of fibrosing mediastinitis. A 39-year-old man with no prior medical history presented with a four-week history of facial plethora, headache and dilated veins of the neck with a dark purple color change on the anterior chest wall. Radiology examinations, including venography, and computed tomography with a 3-dimensional volume-rendering image of the chest, had revealed severe narrowing of the SVC due to tiny encircling soft tissue and collateral vessels. A total occlusion of the SVC occurred as a result of a thrombus that developed within 1 day after the diagnostic SVC angiogram. The patient underwent stent deployment three days after the administration of thrombolytic therapy.

Central venous catheters: the role of radiology

The insertion and management of long-term venous catheters have long been the province of anaesthetists, intensive care physicians and surgeons. Radiologists are taking an increasing role in the insertion of central venous catheters (CVCs) because of their familiarity with the imaging equipment and their ability to manipulate catheters and guide-wires. The radiological management of the complications of CVCs has also expanded as a result. This article reviews the role of radiology in central venous access, covering the detection and management of their complications.

Nonmalignant superior vena cava syndrome: Pathophysiology and management

Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome occurs following obstruction either from external compression or internal thrombosis or scarring. In the past, treatment was limited to medical therapy or surgical bypass but now percutaneous revascularization presents a viable therapeutic option. We present our experience in the percutaneous therapy of patients with nonmalignant SVC syndrome and review the condition with regard to its pathophysiology and management.

Percutaneous treatment of superior vena cava obstruction following transvenous device implantation

The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility and safety of percutaneous treatment of superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction following transvenous device implantation. SVC obstruction is an uncommon but serious complication that can occur following permanent pacemaker or cardioverter defibrillator implantation utilizing transvenous endocardial leads. The treatment has traditionally been surgical but with the advent of stents, percutaneous approach is becoming popular. We report on the prevalence of SVC obstruction and the safety of its percutaneous catheter-based treatment. This is a retrospective study of SVC obstruction following device implantation in our institution from January 1993 through November 2003. A total of 1,850 permanent pacemaker and 1,200 implantable cardioverter defibrillator initial implants were performed during that period. Three patients developed SVC obstruction following implant (prevalence, 1/1,000 implant). Two patients were males and the mean age at implant was 57 +/- 13 years. Laser lead extraction and SVC angioplasty with or without stenting were performed in all patients. In two of them, this was followed by reimplantation of new systems. There were no procedural complications or mortality. The patients remain free of SVC obstruction symptoms 24 +/- 19 months after treatment. SVC obstruction prevalence after device implantation is low. Percutaneous treatment of SVC obstruction can be safely performed and appears to be effective in maintaining medium-term patency.

Endovascular stenting of nonmalignant superior vena cava syndrome

Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome is associated with advanced malignancy of the chest. Extensive experience is published in the literature regarding the use of endovascular intervention for symptomatic relief in these individuals with limited survival. Symptomatic SVC obstruction may occur from benign conditions that may not alter life expectancy. There are few data regarding endovascular therapy in this setting. We retrospectively analyzed our experience using endovascular intervention for benign SVC obstruction in 19 patients. In our series, the mean age was 46.4 years; 58% were female and 14/19 cases were due to an intravascular device. All patients experienced symptomatic relief. Median follow-up was 28.8 months. Three patients required secondary procedures to maintain patency. Four patients had procedural complications, which did not affect the outcomes. One patient died from complications of anticoagulation at 24 months. Endovascular procedures aimed at relieving SVC stenosis seem to be effective in patients with benign disease.

Congenital superior vena cava obstruction causing anasarca and respiratory failure in a newborn: Successful transcatheter therapy

Superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction is a rare entity in the pediatric population. It usually presents in association with either previous cardiac surgery or external compression from a neoplasm. We present the case of an infant born with congenital SVC obstruction and significant bilateral chylothorax and anasarca necessitating mechanical ventilation. Successful placement of an intravascular stent led to resolution of the chylothoraces with rapid clinical improvement.

Radiological Management of Superior Vena Caval Stent Migration and Infection

We report a case of venous obstruction secondary to Hodgkin's lymphoma. Multiple Wallstents were inserted into the superior vena cava to relieve obstructive symptoms secondary to tumor. This procedure was complicated by stent migration into the right ventricle and a presumed stent infection. We describe the percutaneous management of these complications and discuss the issues surrounding the use of stents in this setting. We conclude that these complications can be managed percutaneously. However, the technical details of stent placement are essential in minimizing complications of this type.

Axillary to saphenous vein bypass for treatment of central venous obstruction in patients receiving dialysis

OBJECTIVE

Venous hypertension due to subclavian or innominate vein stenosis coexisting with a functioning arteriovenous access in the ipsilateral arm is a complex problem in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Therapeutic solutions must optimally relieve symptoms, permit use of the angioaccess, and carry minimal surgical risk. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a simple surgical option, bypassing central venous obstruction to the great saphenous vein.

METHODS

Eight patients undergoing hemodialysis with severe symptoms and signs of venous hypertension due to subclavian or innominate vein obstruction and ipsilateral arteriovenous fistula or graft underwent axillosaphenous bypass via a subcutaneous 8-mm polytetrafluoroethylene bridge graft.

RESULTS

No intraoperative or immediate postoperative morbidity was observed. Early and 6-month patency rates were 100% and 87.5%, respectively. All patients reported improvement of symptoms, and the angioaccess was usable in all cases. Average follow-up was 21.5 months. One patient had a relapse at 5 months, which necessitated revision of the graft-saphenous vein anastomosis.

CONCLUSION

Bypassing a central vein occlusion to the saphenous vein relieves symptoms of venous hypertension and prolongs use of the hemodialysis angioaccess.

Endovascular stenting as a first choice for the palliation of superior vena cava syndrome

To assess the effectiveness of endovascular stenting for the palliation of superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome, endovascular stent insertion was attempted in 10 patients with symptomatic occlusion of the SVC. All the patients had known malignant disease of the thorax. Eight patients had been treated previously with chemotherapy and radiotherapy (n=5), chemotherapy alone (n=2), or pneumonectomy and radiotherapy (n=1). After developing SVC syndrome, all the patients were stented before receiving any other treatment. After single or multiple endovascular stents were inserted, five of eight patients were treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy (n=2) or chemotherapy alone (n=3). Resolution of symptoms was achieved in nine patients within 72 hr (90%). In one patient, the symptoms did not disappear until a second intervention. At follow up, symptoms had recurred in two of ten patients (20%) after intervals of 15 and 60 days. Five patients have died from their cancers, although they remained free of symptoms of SVC occlusion until death. In conclusion, endovascular stent insertion is an effective treatment for palliation of SVC syndrome. Endovascular stent insertion can be considered the first choice of treatment, due to the immediate relief of symptoms and excellent sustained symptomatic relief.

Management of a small bowel transplant with complicated central venous access in a patient with asymptomatic superior and inferior vena cava obstruction

During the past few years, small bowel transplantation (SBT) has become a realistic alternative for patients with irreversible intestinal failure who have or will develop severe complications from total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Transplantation can be associated with large fluid shifts and massive blood loss necessitating rapid infusions of large quantities of crystalloid and/or blood products. Invasive monitoring and large-bore venous access are necessary in order to manage these patients intraoperatively. Because patients with irreversible intestinal failure are often managed with total parenteral nutrition via a central venous catheter, thrombotic intraluminal obstruction of major vessels may develop over time. Additionally, this may lead to superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome as well as challenging problems with vascular access. We present a 34-year-old woman with a past medical history for long-standing Crohn's disease with multiple small bowel resections and short gut syndrome who presented for an SBT. The patient had a long history of TPN use, complicated by SVC syndrome and inferior vena cava (IVC) obstruction. She was presently asymptomatic from her SVC obstruction. Central venous access was obtained by an interventional radiologist. A 7-French double-lumen Hickman minicatheter was placed in the left femoral vein with the tip of the catheter positioned just distal to the IVC narrowing. A left radial 20-gauge arterial line was placed for hemodynamic monitoring and frequent blood sampling. The patient's left and right dorsal-saphenous veins were cannulated with 16-guage catheters and adequate flow was observed. Lower extremity pressure was measured via the Hickman catheter in the left femoral vein. A multiplane transesophageal echo was used to assess ventricular volume. The options and intraoperative management of such patients are discussed.

Stent therapy for malignant superior vena cava syndrome: should be first line therapy or simple adjunct to radiotherapy

The goal of this paper is to present our experience with superior vena cava (SVC) stenting, as first line procedure for immediate relief, in patients with malignancy, and its potential influence in the subsequent radiotherapy (XRT). Over a 1-year period, 18 patients with SVC syndrome due to severe stenosis secondary to mediastinal malignancy were referred for stent insertion. A SVC score was used to measure treatment effectiveness. Stent insertion had been successful in 18/18 patients (technical success 100%). All patients experienced symptomatic relief within few hours of the procedure. There were no major complications. In all patients we were able to start radiotherapy (XRT) the next day, after stenting according to our new institutional protocol. All patients were able to comply with the XRT program, perfectly well.

CONCLUSIONS

SVC stenting provides immediate significant relief of the very annoying SVC syndrome symptoms, thus facilitating excellent compliance of all the patients to the subsequently XRT protocols. We strongly recommend SVC stenting as first line procedure, in patients with SVC syndrome due to malignancy prior to radiotherapy.

Open surgical and endovascular treatment of superior vena cava syndrome caused by nonmalignant disease

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of endovascular and open surgical reconstructions in patients with superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome caused by nonmalignant disease.

METHODS

Clinical data from 32 consecutive patients who underwent endovascular or open surgical reconstruction of central veins because of symptomatic benign SVC syndrome between November 1983 and June 2001 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

The study included 17 male and 15 female patients (mean age, 38 years; range, 5-69 years). Presenting symptoms were head fullness (n = 26), dyspnea or orthopnea (n = 23), headache (n = 17), or dizziness (n = 11); physical signs were head swelling (n = 31), chest wall collateral vessels (n = 29), facial cyanosis (n = 18), or arm swelling (n = 17). Etiologic factors included mediastinal fibrosis (n = 19), indwelling catheter (n = 8), idiopathic thrombosis (n = 4), or post-surgery (n = 1). Two patients were heterozygous for factor V Leiden; 1 patient had antithrombin III deficiency. Twenty-nine patients underwent surgical reconstruction with 31 bypass grafts: spiral saphenous vein (n = 20), superficial femoral vein (n = 4), human allograft (n = 1), or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE, n = 6). Eleven patients underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty or stenting; 3 primary and 8 secondary endovascular procedures were performed to treat graft stenosis (n = 7) or occlusion (n = 1). There were no early deaths. Five early graft failures in 3 ePTFE grafts and 2 bifurcated vein grafts (thrombosis, n = 4; stenosis, n = 1) were successfully treated with open surgical revision. Over a mean follow-up of 5.6 years (range, 0.4-16.6 years) in surgical patients, 17 additional secondary interventions were performed in 8 patients, 14 endovascular and 3 surgical. Primary, assisted primary, and secondary patency rates of surgical bypass grafts were 63%, 79%, and 85%, respectively, at 1 year, and 53%, 68%, and 80%, respectively, at 5 years. Graft patency was significantly higher in vein grafts compared with ePTFE grafts (P =.02). Mean follow-up after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty or stenting was 3.1 years (range, 1 day-11.7 years). Twelve secondary endovascular interventions were performed in 6 patients (primary group, 3 of 3; secondary group, 3 of 9 grafts in 8 patients) to maintain patency in 11 of 12 reconstructions. Mean follow-up in the entire patient cohort was 5.3 years (range, 0.4-16.6 years). In 79% of patients symptoms had resolved or were significantly improved at last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical treatment of benign SVC syndrome is effective over the long term, with secondary endovascular interventions to maintain graft patency. Straight spiral saphenous vein graft remains the conduit of choice for surgical reconstruction, with results superior to those with bifurcated vein and ePTFE. Endovascular treatment is effective over the short term, with frequent need for repeat interventions. It does not adversely affect future open surgical reconstruction and may prove to be a reasonable primary intervention in selected patients. Patients who are not suitable for or who fail endovascular intervention merit open surgical reconstruction.

Endovascular management of venous thrombotic diseases of the upper torso and extremities

Central venous thrombosis in the upper torso can be either primary, occurring as a result of longstanding extrinsic compression, or secondary, resulting from an acquired intrinsic occlusive disease or foreign body. As in lower extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT), anticoagulation therapy is the mainstay of therapy in upper torso and upper extremity DVT. However, in the presence of severely symptomatic acute thrombosis, pharmacologic and/or mechanical thrombolytic therapy represent the main invasive form of therapy for these conditions. After clearance of the acute thrombotic component, definitive management in patients with underlying anatomic abnormalities can be undertaken. Primary subclavian axillary vein thrombosis caused by extrinsic obstruction at the thoracic outlet is treated with thrombolytic therapy and anticoagulation followed by surgical decompression, whereas secondary causes of central venous obstruction and thrombosis are usually amenable to endovascular treatment with balloon angioplasty and stent placement. Postoperative interval anticoagulation is usually recommended. In addition to clinical follow-up, imaging follow-up with duplex sonography or conventional venography is usually recommended to assess the presence of restenosis and/or residual compression.

Pulmonary artery stenting for recurrent lung cancer after left pneumonectomy

We present a case of a patient with stenosis of the pulmonary artery which was successfully treated by implantation of a vascular endoprosthesis. A 50-year-old man underwent left pneumonectomy for lung cancer. Eleven months later, a computed tomographic scan revealed a soft tissue mass in the mediastinum and there was severe stenosis of the remaining right main pulmonary artery. A self-expandable vascular endoprosthesis was implanted in the stenotic portion. We used percutaneous cardiopulmonary support (PCPS) during the procedure. We recommend the technique of pulmonary artery stenting using PCPS as efficacious and safe.