Technical Details and Clinical Outcomes of Transpopliteal Venous Stent Placement for Postthrombotic Chronic Total Occlusion of the Iliofemoral Vein

Indications, technical aspects, and outcomes of stent placement in chronic iliofemoral venous obstruction

BACKGROUND

Iliofemoral venous stent placement (IVS) has evolved to a well-established endovascular treatment modality for chronic iliofemoral venous obstruction (CIVO). Dedicated venous stents gained approval from the US Food and Drug Administration in 2019 and solidified IVS as a defined intervention with clear indications, contraindications, risks, benefits, and procedural management principles. This review focuses on the indications, technical aspects and outcomes of stenting for CIVO. Other aspects pertaining to IVS are covered in other articles that are a part of this series.

METHODS

This study conducted a literature search limited to English articles. Three search strategies were used, and references were managed in Covidence software. Four investigators screened and evaluated articles independently, excluding meta-analyses, clinical trial protocols, and nonrelevant studies. Eligible studies, focused on clinical outcomes and stent patencies, underwent thorough review.

RESULTS

The literature search yielded 1704 studies, with 147 meeting eligibility criteria after screening and evaluation. Exclusions were based on duplicates, irrelevant content, and noniliac vein stent placement.

CONCLUSIONS

Successful IVS for CIVO relies on meticulous patient selection, consistent use of intravascular ultrasound examination during procedures and attention to the technical details of IVS.

One-year outcomes of a novel venous stent for symptomatic iliofemoral venous obstruction: prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

A stent with characteristics of a hybrid design may have advantages in improving the patency of symptomatic iliofemoral vein obstruction. This study assessed the safety and effectiveness of the V-Mixtent Venous Stent in treating symptomatic iliofemoral outflow obstruction.

METHODS

Eligible patients had a Clinical-Etiologic-Anatomic-Physiologic (CEAP) C classification of ≥ 3 or a Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) pain score of ≥ 2. The primary safety endpoint was the rate of major adverse events within 30 days. The primary effectiveness endpoint was the 12-month primary patency rate. Secondary endpoints included changes in VCSS from baseline to 6 and 12 months, alterations in CEAP C classification, Chronic Venous Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (CIVIQ-14) scores at 12 months, and stent durability measures.

RESULTS

Between December 2020 and November 2021, 171 patients were enrolled across 15 institutions. A total of 185 endovenous stents were placed, with 91.81% of subjects receiving one stent and 8.19% receiving 2 stents. Within 30 days, only two major adverse events occurred (1.17%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.14-4.16%), below the literature-defined performance goal of 11% (P < .001). The 12-month primary patency rate (91.36%; 95% CI, 85.93-95.19%; P < .001) exceeded the literature-defined performance goal. VCSS changes from baseline demonstrated clinical improvement at 6 months (- 4.30 ± 3.66) and 12 months (- 4.98 ± 3.67) (P < .001). Significant reduction in symptoms, as measured by CEAP C classification and CIVIQ-14, was observed from pre-procedure to 12 months (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The 12-month outcomes confirm the safety and effectiveness of the V-Mixtent Venous Stent in managing symptomatic iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction, including clinical symptom improvement compared to before treatment.

Femoral vein stenting versus endovenectomy as adjuncts to iliofemoral venous stenting in extensive chronic iliofemoral venous obstruction

PURPOSE

To compare femoral endovenectomy with the creation of an arteriovenous fistula (FE + AVF), versus iliofemoral endovenous stenting with the concurrent extended femoral vein (FV-S) stenting in patients with chronic iliofemoral venous obstruction (IFVO).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a randomized prospective single-center study, 48 received (FV-S), while the other 54 had (FE + AVF).

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences in the primary outcomes between the two groups (FV-S) and (FE + AVF) (59% vs 56.8%, 75% vs 79.1%, respectively). At a median of 13 months after the treatment. However, the FV-S group's patients experienced fewer postoperative problems (p = .012), shorter procedures (p = .001), and shorter stays in the hospital (p = .025).

CONCLUSION

There is no difference between the efficacy and symptomatic resolution of the FV-S group and the FE + AVF group at the same time, FV-S has lower postoperative complications and a shorter procedure duration and hospital stay.

Endovascular treatment of chronic ilio-femoral vein obstruction with extension below the inguinal ligament in patients with post-thrombotic syndrome

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate postoperative outcomes of patients with chronic iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction and post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) who underwent endovascular recanalization and stenting across the inguinal ligament.

METHODS

All consecutive patients with chronic iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction and PTS were included in the analysis, from January 2018 and February 2022. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative outcomes were assessed. Primary endpoints analyzed were major adverse events (MAEs) at 30 days and primary patency rate at 2 years of follow-up. Secondary endpoints assessed were secondary patency rate, target vessel revascularization, and clinical improvement evaluated with the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) classification, Villalta scale, and visual analog scale (VAS), respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 63 patients (mean age, 48.1 ± 15.5 years; female, 61.9%) were evaluated. No intraoperative and 30-day postoperative complications were documented. The technical success rate was achieved at 100%. Overall, one in-stent occlusion and five in-stent restenosis were detected during follow-up. The primary patency rate was 93.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 87.8%-99.9%) and 92.1% (95% CI, 85.6%-99%), at 1- and 2-year follow-up, respectively (Kaplan-Meier analysis). Target vessel revascularization was conducted in two cases, resulting in a secondary patency of 98.4% (95% CI, 95.4%-100%) at 2 years of follow-up. Stent fracture and/or migration were not observed during follow-up. A significant clinical improvement in the patient's quality of life was documented. The median improvement of VCSS and Villalta scores were 4 (interquartile range, 2-7; P = .001), and 3 (interquartile range, 1.5-5; P = .001) vs baseline at the last follow-up. Overall, pain reduction of 17 mm on the VAS scale was documented at 2 years of follow-up. At multivariate analysis, presence of trabeculation into the femoral vein and deep femoral vein (odds ratio, 1.89; 95% CI, 0.15-6.11; P = .043), and Villalta scale >15 points at admission (odds ratio, 1.89; 95% CI, 0.15-6.11; P = .043) were predictive for in-stent occlusion during the follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a dedicated venous stent across the inguinal ligament was safe and effective for the treatment of symptomatic iliofemoral venous disease with acceptable primary and secondary patency rates at 2 years of follow-up.

Endovascular Strategy for Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis Secondary to Deep Venous Thrombosis of the Lower Extremities: Early Experience From Two Centres

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety, feasibility and technical aspects of endovascular treatments for inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis secondary to deep venous thrombosis of the lower extremities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study of patients from two centres who received endovascular treatment for IVC thrombosis from January 2015 to December 2020. Under the protection of the IVC filter, all lesions were treated with manual aspiration thrombectomy (MAT) followed by catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT). Technical aspects, complications, IVC patency, Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) score and Villalta score were recorded during the follow-up observation.

RESULTS

Endovascular procedures including MAT and CDT were performed successfully in 36 patients (97.3%). The average duration of the endovascular procedure was 71 minutes (range: 35-152 min). To protect against fatal pulmonary artery embolism, 33 filters (91.7%) were deployed in the inferior renal IVC, while three patients (8.3%) received filter implantation in the retrohepatic IVC. No severe complications occurred during the procedure. In the follow-up observations, the cumulative primary and secondary patency rates in IVC were 95% and 100%, respectively. The patency rates for the iliac vein were as follows: a primary patency rate of 77% and a secondary patency rate of 85%. The average VCSS score was 5.9 ± 2.6, and the Villalta score was 3.9 ± 2.2. The rate of post thrombotic syndrome is 22% in our study as assessed by the villalta score (Villalta score>4).

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular treatment for IVC thrombosis secondary to DVT of the lower extremities is feasible, safe, and effective. This strategy alleviates venous insufficiency and results in a high patency rate in IVC.

Assessing outcomes after thrombectomy with or without iliac vein stenting for young provoked DVT patients with iliac vein stenosis

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the outcomes of thrombectomy with/without iliac vein stenting for young and transiently provoked DVT patients with iliac vein stenosis.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected multicenter database. Acute, transiently provoked DVT patients between 18 and 45 years old with iliac vein stenosis were included. All patients underwent thrombectomy. Outcomes including the Villalta score, the VEINES-QOL score, and adverse events were evaluated.

RESULTS

The data of 522 patients were collected of whom 75 were included, 58 underwent thrombectomy alone (nonstenting group) and 17 underwent thrombectomy and stenting (stenting group). Within 6 months, the Villalta score of patients in stenting group is lower than that of patients in nonstenting group (6 mo: 0.73 ± 0.77 vs. 1.41 ± 0.56, p = .0004), and the VEINES-QOL score of stenting group is higher than that of nonstenting group (6 mo: 89.00 ± 2.94 vs. 87.47 ± 3.72, p = .2141). At the following follow-ups, the Villalta score (12 mo: 0.56 ± 0.49 vs. 0.60 ± 0.58, p = .8266) and VEINES-QOL score (12 mo: 88.36 ± 2.29 vs. 88.31 ± 3.36, p = .9604) between the two groups are similar.

CONCLUSION

The stenting group had better efficacy within 6 months after intervention, while there was no significant difference in the symptom, signs, and quality of life between two groups after 6 months within a 2-year follow-up.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration Number: ChiCTR2200056073).

Patient-Reported Outcomes of Endovascular Treatment of Post-Thrombotic Syndrome: Ancillary Study of a French Cohort

Excellent outcomes of angioplasty/stenting for the post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) have been reported, notably regarding objective criteria in the vast French SFICV cohort. Differences may exist between patient-reported and objective outcomes. We investigated this possibility by using validated scales because significative correlations are discordant in the literature between patency and patient-reported characteristics. Patient-reported outcomes seem to be a more consistent tool than radiologic patency for the diagnosis and follow-up of patients displaying PTS. We retrospectively reviewed the Villalta scale and 20-item ChronIc Venous dIsease quality-of-life Questionnaire (CIVIQ-20) scores recorded after endovascular stenting for PTS at 14 centres in France in 2009-2019. We also collected patency rates, pre-operative post-thrombotic lesion severity, and the extent of stenting. We performed multivariate analyses to identify factors independently associated with improvements in each of the two scores. The 539 patients, including 324 women and 235 men, had a mean age of 44.7 years. The mean Villalta scale improvement was 7.0 ± 4.7 (p < 0.0001) and correlated with the thrombosis sequelae grade and time from thrombosis to stenting. The CIVIQ-20 score was available for 298 patients; the mean improvement was 19.2 ± 14.8 (p < 0.0001) and correlated with bilateral stenting, single thrombosis recurrence, and single stented segment. The objective gains demonstrated in earlier work after stenting were accompanied by patient-reported improvements. The factors associated with these improvements differed between the Villalta scale and the CIVIQ-20 score. These results proved that clinical follow-up with validated scores is gainful in patients treated for PTS thanks to a mini-invasive procedure.

Intraoperative angiography via popliteal artery access for spinal neurovascular lesions: an institutional experience and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Intraoperative DSA is used to confirm complete obliteration of neurovascular pathologies. For spinal neurovascular lesions, femoral access can be challenging given the need to flip the patient after sheath placement. Similarly, radial access can be complicated by arch navigation difficulties. Vascular access via the popliteal artery represents an appealing alternative option; however, data regarding its utility and efficacy in these cases are limited.

METHODS

A retrospective series of four consecutive patients between July 2016 and August 2022 who underwent intraoperative spinal DSA via the popliteal artery was analyzed. Additionally, a systematic review was conducted to collect previously reported such cases. Collective patient demographics and operative details are presented to consolidate the available evidence supporting popliteal access.

RESULTS

Four patients met the inclusion criteria from our institution. The systematic review yielded six previously published studies reporting 16 additional transpopliteal access cases. Of the 20 total cases (mean±SD age 60.8±17.2 years), 60% were men. Most treated lesions were dural arteriovenous fistulas (80%) located in the thoracic spine (55%) or cervical spine (25%). The left popliteal artery was most accessed and the highest visualized level was the craniocervical junction. All outcomes were either stable or improving after surgery, and no complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

We report the safety and feasibility of transpopliteal access for intraoperative DSA in the prone position in four cases in addition to 16 previously reported cases in the literature. Our case series highlights popliteal artery access as an alternative to transfemoral or transradial access in this setting.

Stent patency rates and prognostic factors of endovascular intervention for iliofemoral vein occlusion in post-thrombotic syndrome

Objective

Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS), an important complication of deep venous thrombosis (DVT), adversely affects patients’ quality of life. Endovascular intervention in PTS can relieve symptoms rapidly with high therapeutic value. This study mainly focuses on how to improve postoperative stent patency rates and aims to find prognostic factors impacting patency.

Methods

According to the specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, PTS patients who underwent endovascular intervention at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from December 1, 2014, to December 31, 2019, were included in this single-center prospective study. Follow-up data were collected and analyzed regularly over 2 years.

Results

Overall, 31 PTS patients were enrolled in the study. The mean age of these patients was 55.39 ± 11.81, including 19 male patients. Stent implantation was successful in 22 PTS patients, with a technical success rate of 70.97%. The average Villalta scores of the stent-implanted group and the non-stent-implanted group were 5.95 ± 2.57 and 5.78 ± 2.95, respectively, with no significant difference observed. In the stent-implanted group, the perioperative patency rate was 81.81% (18/22), and the follow-up patency rates were 68.18% (15/22) within 3 months, 59.09% (13/22) within 6 months, 45.45% (10/22) within 1 year, and 36.36% (8/22) within 2 years. Based on the stent placement segments, the 22 PTS patients were divided into two subgroups: the iliofemoral vein balloon dilation + iliofemoral vein stent implantation (FV-S) subgroup and the iliofemoral vein balloon dilation + iliac vein stent implantation (FV-B) subgroup. In the FV-S subgroup, the perioperative patency rate was 100.00% (14/14), and the follow-up patency rates were 85.71% (12/14), 71.43% (10/14), 57.14% (8/14) and 50.00% (7/14), which were higher than those for overall stent patency of all patients. The postoperative patency rates in the FV-B subgroup were 50.00% (4/8), 37.50% (3/8), 37.50% (3/8), 25.00% (2/8), and 12.50% (1/8). The secondary postoperative patency rates in the FV-B subgroup were 100.00% (8/8), 87.50% (7/8), 75.00% (6/8), 62.50% (5/8) and 50.00% (4/8).

Conclusions

For PTS patients with iliofemoral vein occlusion but patent inflow, iliofemoral vein stent implantation is a more efficient therapeutic option than iliofemoral vein balloon dilation with iliac vein stent implantation for PTS patients.

Pivotal Study Evaluating the Safety and Effectiveness of the Abre Venous Self-Expanding Stent System in Patients With Symptomatic Iliofemoral Venous Outflow Obstruction

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background:

Iliofemoral venous obstruction is recognized with increasing frequency as the underlying cause of lower extremity symptoms including edema, pain, skin changes, and, in advanced cases, ulceration. This study sought to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the Abre venous self-expanding stent system for the treatment of symptomatic iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction.

Methods:

The ABRE Study (A Multi-Center, Non-Randomized Study to Evaluate the Safety and Effectiveness of the Abre Venous Self-Expanding Stent System in Patients With Symptomatic Iliofemoral Venous Outflow Obstruction) is a single-arm, multicenter, prospective study that included 200 subjects from 24 global sites. The primary end points were 12-month primary patency and major adverse events within 30 days. Secondary end points included lesion and procedure success, primary-assisted and secondary patency, major adverse events, stent migration, stent fracture, and quality of life changes. End point-related adverse events and imaging studies were adjudicated by independent clinical events committee and core laboratories, respectively.

Results:

Venous obstruction cause was classified as acute deep vein thrombosis (16.5%, 33/200), post-thrombotic syndrome (47.5%, 95/200), or nonthrombotic iliac vein lesion (36.0%, 72/200). The common iliac and external iliac veins were stented in 96.0% (192/200), 80.5% (161/200) of subjects, respectively. Stent implant into the common femoral vein was required in 44.0% (88/200). Primary patency at 12 months was 88.0% (162/184). Four (2.0%) major adverse events occurred within 30 days. Twelve-month primary-assisted and secondary patency were 91.8% (169/184) and 92.9% (171/184), respectively. No stent fractures or migrations were reported. Mean target limb Villalta score decreased from 11.2±5.6 at baseline to 4.1±4.8 at 12 months, and the mean target limb revised Venous Clinical Severity Score decreased from 8.8±4.7 at baseline to 4.3±3.6 at 12 months. Clinically meaningful improvements in quality of life and venous functional assessment scores from baseline were demonstrated through 12 months in all measures.

Conclusions:

Symptomatic iliofemoral venous obstruction can be successfully treated with an Abre venous stent. Study outcomes demonstrated a high patency rate with a good safety profile. Patients demonstrated a significant reduction in clinical symptoms and improvement in quality of life that was maintained through 12-month follow-up.

Registration:

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03038438.

Short- and Mid-Term Outcomes of Endovascular Stenting for the Treatment of Post-Thrombotic Syndrome due to Iliofemoral and Caval Occlusive Disease: A Multi-Centric Study from the French Society of Diagnostic and Interventional Cardiovascular Imaging (SFICV)

PURPOSE

To assess the results of endovascular treatment in a large population of patients suffering from post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) due to iliocaval occlusive disease.

METHODS

In this retrospective multi-center study, 698 patients treated by stenting for PTS in 15 French centers were analyzed. Primary, primary assisted, and secondary patency rates were assessed, and clinical efficacy was evaluated using Villalta and Chronic Venous Insufficiency Questionnaire in 20 questions (CIVIQ-20) scores. Outcomes were compared against pre-operative CT-based severity of the post-thrombotic lesions in the thigh (4 grades).

RESULTS

Technical success, defined as successful recanalization and stent deployment restoring rapid anterograde flow in the targeted vessel, was obtained in 668 (95.7%) patients with a complication rate of 3.9%. After a mean follow-up of 21.0 months, primary patency, primary assisted patency, and secondary patency were achieved in 537 (80.4%), 566 (84.7%), and 616 (92.2%) of the 668 patients, respectively. Venous patency was strongly correlated to the grade of post-thrombotic changes in the thigh, with secondary patency rates of 96.0%, 92.9%, 88.4%, and 78.9%, respectively, for grades 0 to 3 (p = .0008). The mean improvements of Villalta and CIVIQ-20 scores were 7.0 ± 4.7 points (p < .0001) and 19.1 ± 14.8 points (p < .0001), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular stenting as a treatment option for PTS due to chronic iliocaval venous occlusion generates a high technical success, low morbidity, high midterm patency rate, and clinical improvement. Venous patency was strongly correlated to the severity of post-thrombotic lesions in the thigh.

An overview of in-stent restenosis in iliofemoral venous stents

BACKGROUND

Although endovenous stents have been associated with overall low morbidity, they can require reinterventions to correct stent malfunction due to in-stent restenosis (ISR). ISR has often occurred iliofemoral venous stents but has not been well described. It has been reported to develop in >70% of patients who have undergone iliofemoral venous stenting. We sought to provide an overview of ISR in iliofemoral venous stents, including the pathologic, diagnostic, and management considerations and the identification of several areas of potential research in the future.

METHODS

A search of reported English-language studies was performed in PubMed and the Cochrane Library. "In-stent restenosis," "vein," "venous," "iliac," and "iliofemoral" were used as keywords. The pertinent reports included in the present review had addressed the pathology, diagnosis, and current management options for ISR.

RESULTS

ISR refers to the narrowing of the luminal caliber of the stent owing to the development of stenosis inside the stent itself. ISR should be differentiated from stent compression. Two main types of ISR have been described: soft and hard lesions. These lesions respond differently to angioplasty. Stent inflow and shear stress are important factors in the development of ISR. The treatment options available at present include balloon angioplasty (hyperdilation or isodilation), laser ablation, atherectomy, and Z-stent placement.

CONCLUSIONS

Reintervention for ISR should be determined by the presence of residual or recurrent symptoms and not simply by a numeric value obtained from an imaging study. Overall stent occlusion due to ISR is rare, and no role exists for prophylactic angioplasty to treat asymptomatic ISR. The current treatment options for ISR are mostly durable and effective. However, more research is needed on methods to prevent the development of ISR. The role of antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents in the prevention of ISR requires further investigation, with particular attention to unique subset of patients (after thrombosis vs nonthrombotic iliac vein lesions). For high-risk, post-thrombotic patients, anticoagulation can be considered to prevent ISR. The role of triple therapy (anticoagulation and dual antiplatelet therapy) in the prevention of ISR remains unclear.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 12-Month Patency After Intervention for Iliofemoral Obstruction Using Dedicated or Non-Dedicated Venous Stents

BACKGROUND

Endovascular stenting of the deep venous system has been proposed as a method to treat patients with symptomatic iliofemoral outflow obstruction. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the effectiveness of this treatment at 1-year following the development of dedicated venous stents.

METHOD AND RESULTS

We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE for studies evaluating the effectiveness of venous stent placement. Data were extracted by disease pathogenesis: non-thrombotic iliac vein lesions (NIVL), acute thrombotic (DVT), or post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). Main outcomes included technical success, stent patency at 1 year and symptom relief. A total of 49 studies reporting outcomes in 5154 patients (NIVL, 1431; DVT, 950; PTS, 2773) were included in the meta-analysis. Technical success rates were comparable among groups (97%-100%). There were no periprocedural deaths. Minor bleeding was reported in up to 5% of patients and major bleeding in 0.5% upon intervention. Transient back pain was noted in 55% of PTS patients following intervention. There was significant heterogeneity between studies reporting outcomes in PTS patients. Primary and cumulative patency at 1 year was: NIVL-96% and 100%; DVT-91% and 97%; PTS (stents above the ligament)-77% and 94%, and; PTS (stents across the ligament)-78% and 94%. There were insufficient data to compare patency outcomes of dedicated and nondedicated venous stents in patients with acute DVT. In NIVL and PTS patients, stent patency was comparable at 1 year. There was inconsistency in the use of validated tools for the measurement of symptoms before and after intervention. When reported, venous claudication, improved in 83% of PTS patients and 90% of NIVL patients, and ulcer healing occurred in 80% of PTS patients and 32% of NIVL patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The first generation of dedicated venous stents perform comparably in terms of patency and clinical outcomes to non-dedicated technologies at 1 year for the treatment of patients with NIVL and PTS. However, significant heterogeneity exists between studies and standardized criteria are urgently needed to report outcomes in patients undergoing deep venous stenting.

Three-Year Results from the Venovo Venous Stent Study for the Treatment of Iliac and Femoral Vein Obstruction

Purpose

To assess safety and patency of the Venovo venous stent for the treatment of iliofemoral vein obstruction.

Materials and Methods

Twenty-two international centers enrolled 170 patients in the VERNACULAR study (93 post-thrombotic syndrome; 77 non-thrombotic iliac vein lesions). Primary outcome measures were major adverse events at 30 days and 12-month primary patency (freedom from target vessel revascularization, thrombotic occlusion, or stenosis > 50%). Secondary outcomes included the Venous Clinical Severity Score Pain Assessment and Chronic Venous Quality-of-Life Questionnaire assessments (hypothesis tested). Secondary observations included primary patency, target vessel and lesion revascularization (TVR/TLR), and assessment of stent integrity through 36 months.

Results

Freedom from major adverse events through 30 days was 93.5%, statistically higher than a pre-specified performance goal of 89% (p = 0.032) while primary patency at 12 months was 88.6%, also statistically higher than a performance goal of 74% (p < 0.0001). Mean quality-of-life measures were statistically improved compared to baseline values at 12 months (p < 0.0001). Primary patency at 36 months was 84% (Kaplan–Meier analysis) while freedom from TVR/TLR was 88.1%. There was no stent embolization/migration, and no core laboratory assessed stent fractures reported through 36 months. Six deaths were reported; none adjudicated as device or procedure related.

Conclusion

The Venovo venous stent was successfully deployed in obstructive iliofemoral vein lesions and met the pre-specified primary outcome measures through 12 months. At 3 years, primary patency was 84%, reintervention rates were low, standardized quality-of-life and pain measures improved from baseline, and there was no stent migration or fractures.

Level of Evidence

Level 2—prospective, multicenter, controlled clinical study without a concurrent control or randomization. Pre-specified endpoints were hypothesis-tested to performance goals derived from peer-reviewed clinical literature.

Registration clinicaltrials.gov

Unique Identifier NCT02655887.

Comparison of endovascular strategy versus hybrid procedure in treatment of chronic venous obstructions involving the confluence of common femoral vein

OBJECTIVE

Treatment of extensive chronic venous obstruction (CVO) with post-thrombotic trabeculation involving the common femoral vein with extension into the femoral vein or deep femoral vein remains a challenge and the best treatment technique for such cases is not clear. In the present study, we compared the results of endovascular alone vs endovascular with additional endophlebectomy (hybrid) procedures for such patients.

METHODS

The medical records of 102 consecutive patients (108 limbs) treated between 2015 and 2020 for iliofemoral CVO extending to the femoral confluence were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups: the hybrid procedure (HP) and endovascular treatment (EN) groups. The HP group consisted of those treated with stent implantation and endophlebectomy of the common femoral vein with creation of an arteriovenous fistula. The EN group included those who had undergone stent implantation alone. The patency rates, complications, and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 102 patients, 47 (49 limbs) were in the EN group and 55 (59 limbs) were in the HP group. The demographics of the two groups were similar with no statistically significant differences in cumulative primary, assisted primary, or secondary patency rates at 36 months (33.7% vs 36.3%, P = .839; 59.8% vs 64%, P = .941; 69% vs 72.7%, P = .851; respectively). The patients in the EN group, however, had better clinical improvement with a lower postoperative complication rate (P = .012), shorter procedure duration (P < .001), and shorter hospital stay (P = .025).

CONCLUSIONS

The EN and HP both provided similar patency rates for patients with CVO extending into the femoral confluence. The endovascular strategy has the benefit of fewer postoperative complications and a shorter procedure duration and hospital stay compared with the HP.

Effect of Stent Strut Interval on Neointima Formation After Venous Stenting in an Ovine Model

OBJECTIVE

The impact of stent design on venous patency is not well studied. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of stent material burden on endothelial coverage of stented venous segments, which may contribute to vessel healing and patency.

METHODS

Segmented self expanding bare nitinol stents (18 × 50 mm) comprising 5 mm long attached metallic rings separated by 2, 5, or 8 mm gaps were implanted in the inferior vena cava (IVC) of 10 sheep. These stents were designed and manufactured for the purposes of this study. At six, 12, and 24 weeks after implantation the animals were euthanised and the stented vessels harvested for histomorphometric analysis. Three sections from the metallic part as well as the gaps between the struts were reviewed for quantification of endothelialisation after six, 12, and 24 weeks. The intimal thickness over and between the stent struts was measured. The endothelialisation score (graded from 1 for complete luminal endothelialisation to 5 for absence of endothelial cells) was determined.

RESULTS

All stents were successfully deployed and all 10 sheep survived until the time of harvesting. Macroscopic inspection after 24 weeks showed only partial endothelialisation over stents with 2 mm and 5 mm skipped segments, whereas the stents with 8 mm skipped segments were totally incorporated into the vein wall. After 24 weeks, the mean (SD) neointimal thicknesses over stent struts with 2 mm, 5 mm, and 8 mm skipped segments were 254.0 (51.6), 182.2 (98.1), and 194.6 (101.1) μm, respectively. Comparison of endothelialisation scores of stents over time showed statistically significantly better endothelialisation over stents with 8 mm gaps after 12 and 24 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Stent designs providing structural support to veins with larger gaps between the scaffold material appear to lead to faster and more complete endothelialisation as well as a thinner intimal layer.

Mid-term patency of iliac venous stenting for post-thrombotic syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) is the most common chronic complication of deep vein thrombosis. Recent studies suggested that iliac stenting in chronic obstructive venous disease is safe and effective. However, systematic reviews focusing on mid-term efficacy of iliac stenting in post-thrombotic syndrome are lacking. This systematic review aimed to analyze mid-term stent patency rates and clinical outcomes of iliac stenting in post-thrombotic syndrome.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Two databases were searched: Pubmed/Medline and Scopus. Articles published between January 2000 and July 2020 were selected and titles and abstracts were independently reviewed. Eighteen articles were included for the qualitative analysis. From this initial set of articles, fourteen articles were included for the quantitative analysis.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Overall, 1008 patients were included in this study. The pooled technical success rate was 96%. The pooled primary and secondary patency rates were 98.2% and 100% at 30 days, 78.1% and 94.5% at 12 months and 66.3% and 89.4% at 36 months, respectively. The rates of ulcer healing, pain and edema relief were 78.1%, 53.4% and 48.8%, respectively. The pooled rate of complications including intraoperative venous injury, back pain and stent fracture were 28%, 57.1%, and 5.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Iliac venous stenting in PTS presents durable mid-term patency rates, as well as significant symptomatic improvement. Therefore, endovascular treatment should be considered in symptomatic patients with PTS.

Postinterventional antithrombotic management after venous stenting of the iliofemoral tract in acute and chronic thrombosis: A systematic review

Venous stenting has become a common treatment option for central deep venous outflow obstructions and postthrombotic syndrome. Following successful recanalization and stenting, stent patency is endangered by in-stent thrombosis and recurrent venous thromboembolism. Antithrombotic therapy might reduce patency loss. This systematic review summarizes the literature on antithrombotic therapy following (post)thrombotic venous stenting. A systematic PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane search was performed for studies addressing antithrombotic therapy prescribed following venous stenting of the iliofemoral tract indicated by acute or chronic thrombotic pathology. A total of 277 articles was identified of which 64 (56 original studies) were selected. Overall, a mean primary patency rate of 82.3% was seen 1 year after the intervention, which decreased to 73.3% after 2 years. In the majority (43 of 56 studies, 77%), treatment was based on use of vitamin K antagonists, either with (18%) or without (59%) use of antiplatelet drugs. Only two studies (4%) directly assessed the effect of antithrombotic therapy on treatment outcomes. The impact of postinterventional antithrombotic therapy on stent patency remains unknown because of limited and insufficient data available in current literature. Further clinical research should more clearly address the role of antithrombotic therapy for preservation of long-term patency following venous stenting.

Diagnostic and Technical Challenges in the Care of a Complex Patient With Post-Thrombotic Syndrome

Iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis can lead to post-thrombotic syndrome, a costly and morbid condition. Endovascular treatment is increasingly used for symptomatic relief, but clinical success depends on accurate patient evaluation and selection. This case describes the diagnostic and technical challenges in the care of a complex patient with post-thrombotic syndrome following stroke and extensive deep vein thrombosis. It highlights the multi-disciplinary work-up for a patient with post-thrombotic syndrome presenting with confounding symptoms, as well as the importance of considering alternative access for successful lower extremity venous recanalization.

Doppler ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound in detection of stent stenosis after iliac vein stenting

Background

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of Doppler ultrasound (DUS) with contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for detection of iliac vein stent stenosis using multidetector computed tomography venography (MDCTV) as the reference method.

Methods

Patients with iliac vein obstructive disease treated with nitinol stents (Smart Control, Cordis, USA) between January 2016 and December 2017 were consecutively included in this study. DUS, CEUS, and MDCTV were carried out in all patients within one week of each other at 1 year post stenting to investigate the presence of stent compression and in-stent restenosis (ISR).

Results

The study included 139 patients (87 females; mean age 58 ± 15 years). For detecting stent compression, the kappa coefficient between the ultrasound modality of gray-scale imaging and MDCTV was 0.901, indicating very good agreement between these two modalities. ISR was detected in 50, 61, and 65 patients by DUS, CEUS, and MDCTV, respectively. DUS and CEUS (kappa = 0.449) and DUS and MDCTV (kappa = 0.516) had moderate agreement for ISR diagnosis, while for which CEUS and MDCTV (kappa 0.884) had very good agreement. The sensitivity and specificity of DUS and CEUS for diagnosing ISR were 63.1% and 90.8%, 87.8% and 97.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

CEUS is probably superior to DUS in terms of diagnostic accuracy for the follow-up of patients with iliac vein stent stenosis.

Comparing Safety and Efficacy of Rivaroxaban with Warfarin for Patients after Successful Stent Placement for Chronic Iliofemoral Occlusion: A Retrospective Single Institution Study

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to compare the safety and effectiveness of rivaroxaban and warfarin as anticoagulants for treating patients with post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) with chronic iliofemoral venous occlusion undergoing iliofemoral venous stenting.

METHODS

This single institution retrospective study analysed patients with PTS with chronic iliofemoral venous occlusion who were prescribed rivaroxaban or warfarin for one year after successfully undergoing iliofemoral venous stenting. The primary safety and efficacy endpoints were bleeding complication rate and primary patency rate at one year. Secondary outcomes included Villalta score, symptom recurrence rate, ulcer healing rate, and clinically driven target lesion revascularisation (CD-TLR) rate during follow up.

RESULTS

From January 2016 to December 2017, 154 legs from 154 patients were included in this study (69 in rivaroxaban group and 85 in warfarin group). The groups were well matched for patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and procedural details. There was no significant difference between the rivaroxaban group and warfarin group in bleeding complication rate (10% vs. 16%, p = .23, hazard ratio [HR] 0.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.25 - 1.37) at one year, as well as major bleeding complication rate (0% vs. 2%, p = .20, HR 0.16, 95% CI 0.01 - 2.61) and minor bleeding complication rate (10% vs. 14%, p = .40, HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.27 - 1.66). The primary patency rate was higher in the rivaroxaban group at one year (84% vs. 71%, p = .049, HR 0.50, 95% CI 0.26 - 0.96) and at two years (79% vs. 63%, p = .037, HR 0.52, 95% CI 0.29 - 0.93). At a mean follow up of 24 months (range 1 - 42 months), the rivaroxaban group had a significantly lower post-operative Villalta score (4.87 ± 3.51 vs. 6.88 ± 5.85, p = .010, t = 2.64, 95% CI 0.50 - 3.52), lower rate of symptom recurrence (4% vs. 32%, p < .001), lower CD-TLR rates (3% vs. 13%, p = .039), and higher ulcer healing rate (90% vs. 59%, p = .004) than the warfarin group.

CONCLUSION

For PTS patients with chronic iliofemoral venous occlusion undergoing iliofemoral venous stenting, rivaroxaban probably exhibited similar safety but superior efficacy to warfarin. However, further prospective control studies with large sample size are necessary to confirm the results.

A retrospective comparison of thrombectomy followed by stenting and thrombectomy alone for the management of deep vein thrombosis with May-Thurner syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the clinical results of thrombectomy with stenting (TBS) in patients with deep venous thrombosis (DVT) secondary to May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) compared with the outcomes in patients treated with thrombectomy alone (TB).

METHODS

A retrospective observation of patients with proximal DVT secondary to MTS was conducted in our institution. Patients accepted treatment including either catheter-directed TBS or TB. The complications and stent patency rates were recorded after treatments. The clinical results were assessed in both groups. The independent predictors for in-stent restenosis were further calculated in this study.

RESULTS

We included 372 patients with DVT secondary to MTS. Two hundred twenty-one patients received treatment with thrombectomy with TBS and 151 with TB. A longer mean procedure time (65.1 ± 13.9 minutes vs 49.5 ± 15.7 minutes; P < .001) and higher venous perforation rate (23 patients vs 5 patients; P = .011) were observed in the TBS group than in the TB group. The median follow-up time was 34 months. The patency rates in the TBS group at 36 months were as follows: primary patency rate of 74.0% and secondary patency rate of 92.1%. Independent predictors for restenosis included visible remaining collateral vessels (hazard ratio [HR], 1.12-3.29; P = .02), residual thrombus (HR, 1.40-4.38; P = .002), and tapered iliac vein (HR, 1.26-4.06; P = .006). Clinical results, including Venous Clinical Severity Scores (TBS, 8.0 ± 3.0; TB, 11.4 ± 3.2), Chronic Venous Insufficiency Questionnaire score (TBS, 76.4 ± 4.0; TB, 83.1 ± 4.6), Villalta scores (TBS, 3.8 ± 1.7; TB, 6.6 ± 3.2), and edema scores (TBS, 0.7 ± 0.7; TB, 1.6 ± 0.6), improved significantly in the TBS group.

CONCLUSIONS

TBS is effective and feasible for patients with proximal DVT secondary to MTS. Furthermore, compared with TB, additional stenting might be effective in improving the venous clinical results at follow-up observations.

Use of the VENOVO™ and Sinus Obliquus™ venous stents in the treatment of non-thrombotic or post-thrombotic iliac vein lesions - Short-term results from a multi-centre Asian cohort

OBJECTIVES

Deep venous stenting with intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) guidance is gaining favour as the treatment modality of choice for symptomatic ilio-femoral venous occlusive disease. The aim was to determine the short-term patency and symptomatic relief gained using the Bard Venovo™ and Optimed Sinus Obliquus™ stents in the endovascular treatment of non-thrombotic iliac vein lesions (NIVL) and post-thrombotic venous obstruction (PTO) from two Asian tertiary vascular centres.

METHODS

Sixty patients (males = 21/60 (35.0%); median age 67 years (interquartile range 54-77)) who underwent IVUS interrogation and ilio-femoral stenting (June 2018-May 2019) in two Asian centres were prospectively followed. Clinical improvement was determined by the revised Venous Clinical Severity Score (rVCSS), pain using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and ulcer healing rate. Patency rates were evaluated using Duplex ultrasound and computer tomography venogram.

RESULTS

Seventy-one legs were interrogated and stented; 11/60 (18.3%) patients had a bilateral procedure. Indications for surgery were PTO (n = 11/71 (15.5%)) and NIVL (n = 60/71 (84.5%)). Twenty-seven of 71 (38.0%) patients had CEAP 6 disease. The median follow-up was 283 (interquartile range 211-370) days. Technical and procedural success was both 100%. Twenty-one of 71 (29.6%) legs had a combination of Venovo™ and Sinus Obliquus™ stents inserted for concurrent ilio-caval and iliac lesions. There were no major post-operative complications. Six-month primary, assisted primary and secondary patency rates were 94.1, 97.1 and 100%, respectively. There were no stent fractures. Mean rVCSS and VAS improved from 12.26 (±3.31) to 4.33 (±2.78) and 6.97 (±1.38) to 2.03 (±1.65), respectively, at three months (p < 0.01). Complete ulcer healing was seen in 27/27 (100%) patients at three months.

CONCLUSION

Use of Venovo™ and Sinus Obliquus™ stents for symptomatic ilio-femoral venous disease showed excellent six-month primary patency rate with no stent fractures. There were significant clinical improvement and low-device-related complications. Longer follow-up is awaited to see how these dedicated venous stents perform.

Venous stenting for patients with outflow obstruction and leg ulcers: cost–effectiveness and budget impact analyses

Aim: To perform cost–effectiveness analysis (CEA) and budget impact analysis (BIA) comparing stenting to standard medical treatment (SMT) for the management of deep venous outflow obstruction and leg ulcers from the Italian Healthcare Service perspective. Materials & methods: A Markov model was developed to project costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) over 3 years, based on data from literature combined with real-world data. Moreover, a BIA was performed comparing the current scenario (100% SMT) with increasing utilization rates of stenting over SMT from 0.5 to 5%, in the next 5 years. Results: Stenting is a cost-effective (incremental cost-utility ratio €12,388/QALY) or dominant option versus SMT, according to in-patient or day-hospital settings, respectively. Increasing use of stenting over SMT, in the next 5 years, is expected to yield additional costs of 39.5 million Euros (in-patient) or savings of 5.1 million Euros (day-hospital). Conclusion: Stenting is a cost-effective option compared with SMT for patients with deep vein occlusion and ulceration in Italy.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Radiologic Management of Iliofemoral Venous Thrombosis

Iliofemoral venous thrombosis carries a high risk for pulmonary embolism, recurrent deep vein thrombosis, and post-thrombotic syndrome complicating 30% to 71% of those affected. The clinical scenarios in which iliofemoral venous thrombosis is managed may be diverse, presenting a challenge to identify optimum therapy tailored to each situation. Goals for management include preventing morbidity from venous occlusive disease, and morbidity and mortality from pulmonary embolism. Anticoagulation remains the standard of care for iliofemoral venous thrombosis, although a role for more aggressive therapies with catheter-based interventions or surgery exists in select circumstances. Results from recent prospective trials have improved patient selection guidelines for more aggressive therapies, and have also demonstrated a lack of efficacy for certain conservative therapies. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.

Endovascular Treatment of Post-thrombotic Venous Ilio-Femoral Occlusions: Prognostic Value of Venous Lesions Caudal to the Common Femoral Vein

OBJECTIVES

To propose a scale of severity for post-thrombotic venous lesions (PTVLs) after ilio-femoral deep venous thrombosis and to compare the grade with the results of endovascular treatment of ilio-femoral PTVLs.

METHODS

In this retrospective monocentric observational study, we included 95 patients treated for ilio-femoral PTVLs. We proposed a four-grade scale evaluating the severity of PTVLS caudal to the common femoral vein based on CT phlebography and per-operative phlebography. For most patients, venous patency was assessed with color duplex ultrasonography and the clinical efficacy of the intervention using the Villalta and CIVIQ scores.

RESULTS

Recanalization was successful in 100% of patients with a morbidity rate of 4%. After a mean follow-up of 21 months, the overall primary patency was 75%, the assisted primary patency 82%, and the secondary patency 93%. Secondary patency was 100% for grade 0-1, 90% for grade 2, and 63% for grade 3 (p < 0.002). There was no correlation between the extension of stenting caudally of the common femoral vein and venous patency. The mean improvements in the Villalta and CIVIQ-20 scores were, respectively, 4.6 (p < 0.0001) and 18 (p < 0.0001); scores were not correlated with the grade of PTVLs in the thigh.

CONCLUSION

Venous patency after endovascular treatment of ilio-femoral PTVLs was strongly linked to the severity of PTVLs caudal to the common femoral vein but not to the extent of stenting.

[Antithrombotic therapy after venous stenting]

Presented herein is a literature review considering the problems of using antithrombotic therapy after venous stenting. Described herein are the literature data according to which the authors give preference to anticoagulant therapy (low-molecular-weight heparins, vitamin K antagonists, direct oral anticoagulants). This is followed by considering the problems of duration of treatment depending on various clinical situations. According to the presented data, the problem of prescribing disaggregants in a combination with anticoagulants after stenting of veins remains disputable, finding however many supporters. Analysed in the article are the results of the first International Delphi Consensus dedicated to antithrombotic therapy after venous stenting. Participating in the study were 106 independent experts practicing stenting in 78 centres of 28 countries of the world. Nonthrombotic iliac vein lesions, having appeared as May-Thurner syndrome due to extravasal compression and residual obstruction after thrombolysis, as well as the presence of postthrombotic syndrome were the main 'scenarios' for our study. The study resulted in working out provisions considering the policy of antithrombotic therapy in various obstructive lesions of deep veins. According to the presented data, anticoagulant therapy is preferable during 6-12 months after stenting in nonthrombotic iliac vein lesions. Low-molecular-weight heparins appear to be a method of choice in treatment during the first 2-6 weeks. Life-long administration of anticoagulants is recommended after multiple deep vein thromboses. Discontinuation of anticoagulants after 6-12 months is indicated after venous stenting in one episode of deep vein thrombosis. No consensus was achieved regarding the role of prolonged disaggregant therapy. Underlined in the article is the importance of a meticulous individual approach to choosing optimal policy of antithrombotic therapy and determining therapeutic policy together with a haematologist.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Iliofemoral Stenting for Post-thrombotic Syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Stent placements are considered as a treatment for post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) with iliofemoral obstruction, but the application of these iliofemoral venous stents has also caused a lot of controversy. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to summarise the efficacy and safety of venous stents in PTS with obstruction in iliofemoral venous segments.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials databases and key references were searched up to 15 January 2018. The main relevant outcomes included technical success, peri-operative complications, symptom resolution, a change of symptom scores, and long-term patency of the stents.

RESULTS

Overall, 504 limbs of 489 patients from seven studies were included in this study. A GRADE assessment showed the quality of the evidence was "very low" for 11 relevant outcomes. The technical success rate was 95%. The pooled rate of complications including 30 day thrombotic event, per-operative venous injury, and back pain was 3.4%, 18.14%, and 52%, respectively. The rates of ulcer healing, pain and oedema relief were 75.66%, 52%, and 42%, respectively. The primary, assisted primary and secondary patency rates were 83.36%, 90.59%, and 94.32%, respectively, at 12 months and 67.98%, 82.26%, and 86.10%, respectively, at 36 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Endovenous stenting has the potential to be effective and has a low risk of peri-operative complications. The quality of evidence to support this treatment is very low. Endovenous iliofemoral stenting should be considered a treatment option for PTS with iliofemoral obstruction.

Endovascular and Open Surgery for Deep Vein Thrombosis

The surgical treatment of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) has significantly evolved and is focused on different strategies of early thrombus removal in the acute phase and deep venous recanalization or bypass in the chronic phase. Along with the use of anticoagulation agents, endovascular techniques based on catheter-directed thrombolysis and pharmacomechanical thrombectomy have been increasingly used in patients with acute extensive DVT. Patient selection is crucial to provide optimal outcomes and minimize complications.

Beneficial Effect of Endovascular Treatment on Villalta Score in Japanese Patients With Chronic Iliofemoral Venous Thrombosis and Post-Thrombotic Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS), the most common complication of deep venous thrombosis (DVT), develops in ≥50% of patients with iliofemoral DVT. However, the benefit of endovascular treatment in Japanese patients with chronic DVT and PTS remains unclear. Methods and Results: Between June 2014 and May 2016, endovascular treatment was performed in 11 consecutive Japanese patients with chronic iliofemoral DVT and PTS refractory to anticoagulant therapy and elastic compression stockings. We evaluated the technical success rate, complications, patency, Villalta score, calf circumference, and popliteal vein reflux in both the acute stage (the day following endovascular treatment) and chronic stage (after 6 months). Imaging follow-up included venous duplex scanning and/or magnetic resonance venography. The technical success rate was 81.8%, without complications. In patients with successful intervention, the Villalta score improved significantly, from 9.0±3.7 preoperatively to 3.6±2.5 in the acute phase (P<0.01) and 2.9±2.1 in the chronic phase (P<0.001). The bilateral difference in lower thigh circumference also improved significantly, from 2.6±1.0 cm preoperatively to 1.4±1.0 cm in the chronic phase (P<0.001). However, popliteal vein reflux did not improve. In patients with successful intervention, venous patency rate was 100% at 6 months post-intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular treatment is safe and effective in Japanese patients with chronic iliofemoral DVT and PTS.

The evidence supporting treatment of reflux and obstruction in chronic venous disease

On July 20, 2016, a Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee panel convened to assess the evidence supporting treatment of chronic venous disease. Several societies addressed the questions posed to the panel. A multidisciplinary coalition, representing nine societies of venous specialists, reviewed the literature and presented a consensus opinion regarding the panel questions. The purpose of this paper is to present our coalition's consensus review of the literature and recommendations for chronic venous disease.

Endovascular treatment of post-thrombotic and non-thrombotic iliofemoral venous outflow obstructions with self-expanding nitinol stents

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to investigate venous patency and clinical outcomes for endovascular treatment of iliofemoral venous obstruction in patients with post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) and non-thrombotic iliac vein lesion (NIVL) with dedicated self-expanding nitinol stents.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data were collected from the prospective Swiss Venous Stent Registry, enrolling consecutive patients with a standardized follow-up procedure since January 2008. Patency was evaluated by duplex sonography and clinical outcome by various scores including the Villalta score at baseline, three, six, and 12 months, and then annually after endovascular therapy.

RESULTS

Overall, 93 patients (64 PTS, 29 NIVL) were analysed. Mean follow-up time was 20 ± 16 (range 3-70) months. A total of 11 (12 %) patients had a stent occlusion, all of which occurred in the PTS group, and 13 (14 %) patients had a symptomatic stent stenosis. Primary patency was 79 % (95 % CI 68-87 %) at 12 months and 72 % (95 % CI 59-82 %) at 24 months. In PTS patients, primary patency at 12 months was 75 % (95 % CI 61-84 %) vs. 89 % (95 % CI 63-97 %) in NIVL patients (p = 0.10). Secondary patency at 24 months was 94 % (95 % CI 84-98 %) in PTS and 100 % in NIVL, p = 0.19). Overall, 62 (67 %) patients were free from PTS at the latest follow-up with a Villalta score < 5 points. Predictive factors for the loss of primary patency were stents placed below the inguinal ligament (OR 2.59, 95 % CI, 0.99-6.84, p = 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In symptomatic patients with chronic iliofemoral vein obstruction, endovascular therapy with self-expanding nitinol stents was associated with favourable patency rates and clinical improvement in the majority of patients.

Investigation of adverse events associated with an off-label use of arterial stents and CE-marked iliac vein stents in the iliac vein: insights into developing a better iliac vein stent

We analyzed the adverse events associated with an off-label use of arterial stents and CE-marked iliac vein stents for the treatment of iliac venous thromboembolism and investigated their relationships with the anatomical features of the iliac vein, to gain insights into the development of a better iliac vein stent. Reports of adverse events following the use of stents in the iliac vein were retrieved from the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database that contain suspected device-associated complications reported to the Food and Drug Administration. Data from 2006 to 2016 were investigated. The literature analysis was also conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Web of Science focusing on English articles published up to 4 October 2016. The analysis of 88 adverse events from the MAUDE database and 182 articles from the literature revealed that a higher number of adverse events had been reported following the use of arterial stents in the iliac vein compared to CE-marked iliac vein stents. While stent migration and shortening were reported only for the arterial stents, stent fracture and compression occurred regardless of the stent type, even though a vein does not pulsate. A study of the anatomical features of the iliac vein implies that bending, compression, and kink loads are applied to the iliac vein stents in vivo. For designing, developing, and pre-clinical testing of stents intended for use in the iliac vein, the above mechanical load environments induced by the anatomical features should be considered.

Treatment of Femoral Vein Obstruction Concomitant with Iliofemoral Stenting in Patients with Severe Post-thrombotic Syndrome

BACKGROUND

The aim was to assess the clinical and anatomical outcomes of iliofemoral stenting, with concomitant femoral stenting or balloon angioplasty alone, in patients with severe post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) and compromised inflow.

METHODS

A database of patients with severe PTS who successfully underwent endovascular iliofemoral stenting was reviewed retrospectively. Patients with impaired inflow with chronic post-thrombotic obstructive lesions in the femoral vein (FV), but patent profunda vein, were selected and divided into two groups: the FV stenting (FV-S) group and the FV angioplasty (FV-A) group. Patients in the FV-S group were treated with concomitant iliofemoral and FV stenting, and patients in the FV-A group were treated with iliofemoral stenting and balloon angioplasty alone of the obstructed femoral vein. The clinical and stent outcomes were recorded and compared in the two groups.

RESULTS

There were 45 patients in the FV-S group and 69 patients in the FV-A group. The groups were well matched for age, gender, and diseased limbs. The pre-procedural symptoms, CEAP classifications, VCSS scores, Villalta scores, and prevalence of active ulcers were also similar between the two groups. Immediate failure (<30 days post-procedure) in the femoral segment occurred more frequently in the FV-A group (70% in FV-A group vs. 24% in FV-S group, p < .001); however, all treated femoral vein segments had occluded at 12 months. There was no significant difference between the FV-S and FV-A groups in cumulative primary and secondary patency rates of the iliofemoral stent at 3 years (55% vs. 52%, p = .71, and 77% vs. 85%, p = .32, respectively). Complete pain relief, swelling relief, VCSS score, Villalta score, and freedom from ulcers at a median of 22 months (1-48 months) following the procedure were similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Stent placement to treat post-thrombotic iliofemoral obstruction with concomitant obstructed femoral vein but patent profunda vein shows cumulative patency rates and clinical outcomes similar to previous reports. Adjunctive femoral stenting or angioplasty of the obstructed femoral vein does not appear to improve clinical or stent outcomes in patients with severe PTS.

Outcomes of Pharmacomechanical Catheter-directed Thrombolysis for Acute and Subacute Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis: A Retrospective Evaluation in a Single Institution

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND

The objective was to assess the mid-term results of pharmacomechanical catheter-directed thrombolysis (PCDT) for symptomatic acute and subacute inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis; the risk factors of early thrombosis recurrence and iliocaval patency were also evaluated.

METHODS

From January 2010 to December 2015, 54 patients (33 men; mean age 47.1 years) with symptomatic acute and subacute IVC thrombosis were treated with PCDT. Primary technical success (clot lysis ≥ 50% after PCDT), stent-assisted technical success (residual stenosis < 30% after stenting), clinical success (freedom from thrombosis recurrence within 30 days), complications, frequency of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS; Villalta score ≥ 5), and iliocaval patency were recorded at follow-up evaluation. A multivariate regression model was used to determine predictors of early thrombosis reoccurrence and iliocaval patency.

RESULTS

The primary technical success and the stent-assisted technical success were 63% (n = 34/54) and 100% (n = 54/54) respectively. There were 11 patients (20%) with immediate recurrent thrombosis requiring repeat PCDT. Minor bleeding complications occurred in seven patients, and one patient with major bleeding needed a blood transfusion. The occurrence of PTS at a mean of 26 months (range 1-60 months) was 13% (7/54). The 3-year primary and secondary iliocaval patency was 63% and 81%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, active malignancy was predictive of immediate IVC thrombosis recurrence (hazard ratio [HR] 5.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.7-19.8; p = .01), whereas the pre-existing filter played a protective role against iliocaval re-occlusion (HR 0.3, 95% CI 0.1-0.8; p = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

PCDT is safe and effective in managing symptomatic acute and subacute IVC thrombosis. Active malignancy is predictor of thrombosis re-occurrence, whereas the presence of a filter is associated with a higher rate of iliocaval patency at mid-term follow-up.

Patency and Clinical Outcomes of a Dedicated, Self-Expanding, Hybrid Oblique Stent Used in the Treatment of Common Iliac Vein Compression

Purpose: To investigate the clinical outcomes of a dedicated hybrid oblique nitinol stent that has been specifically designed to treat common iliac vein compression. Methods: The Bern Venous Stent Registry database was interrogated to identify all patients who had at least 6-month follow-up after treatment with the sinus-Obliquus hybrid stent for common iliac vein compression. The search identified 24 patients (mean age 39±18 years; 20 women) who matched the search criteria. Ten patients had postthrombotic syndrome (PTS), another 10 patients had acute iliofemoral thrombosis after catheter-directed therapy, and 4 patients had nonthrombotic iliac vein compression. Primary treatment success was defined as antegrade flow and stenosis <30% on venography and evidence of a spontaneous Doppler signal in the treated segment. Stent patency was assessed using duplex ultrasound. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using a clinical symptom score (Villalta) and the revised venous clinical severity score (rVCSS) at 3, 6, and 12 months in follow-up. Results: Primary treatment success was achieved in all patients. Mean follow-up was 10±3 months. Primary patency estimates by Kaplan-Meier analysis were 92% at 6 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 71% to 98%] and 83% (95% CI 54% to 95%) at 10 months. Three symptomatic patients underwent reintervention for early and late stent thromboses and the third for in-stent restenosis, resulting in secondary patency of 100%. Overall, all patients had clinical improvement at the latest follow-up; 50% reported complete resolution of symptoms. In patients with PTS, the Villalta score decreased by 6±6 points (p=0.02) and the rVCSS score by 3±1 points (p=0.05). Among deep vein thrombosis patients, none developed PTS. Conclusion: In patients with common iliac vein compression, the oblique hybrid nitinol stent appears to provide excellent early patency and clinical outcomes.

The predictive value of haemodynamic parameters for outcome of deep venous reconstructions in patients with chronic deep vein obstruction - A systematic review

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive value of haemodynamic parameters on success of stenting or bypass surgery in patients with non-thrombotic or post-thrombotic deep venous obstruction. Methods EMBASE, MEDLINE and trial registries were searched up to 5 February 2016. Studies needed to investigate stenting or bypass surgery in patients with post-thrombotic obstruction or stenting for non-thrombotic iliac vein compression. Haemodynamic data needed to be available with prognostic analysis for success of treatment. Two authors, independently, selected studies and extracted data with risk bias assessment using the Quality in Prognosis Studies tool. Results Two studies using stenting and two using bypass surgery were included. Three investigated plethysmography, though results varied and confounding was not properly taken into account. Dorsal foot vein pressure and venous refill times appeared to be of influence in one study, though confounding by deep vein incompetence was likely. Another investigated femoral-central pressure gradients without finding statistical significance, though sample size was small without details on statistical methodology. Reduced femoral inflow was found to be a predictor for stent stenosis or occlusion in one study, though patients also received additional surgery to improve stent inflow. Data on prediction of haemodynamic parameters for stenting of non-thrombotic iliac vein compression were not available. Conclusions Data on the predictive value of haemodynamic parameters for success of treatment in deep venous obstructive disease are scant and of poor quality. Plethysmography does not seem to be of value in predicting outcome of stenting or bypass surgery in post-thrombotic disease. The relevance of pressure-related parameters is unclear. Reduced flow into the common femoral vein seems to be predictive for in-stent stenosis or occlusion. Further research into the predictive effect of haemodynamic parameters is warranted and the possibility of developing new techniques that evaluate various haemodynamic aspects should be explored.

Endovascular stent placement for chronic post-thrombotic symptomatic ilio-femoral venous obstructive lesions: a single-center study of safety, efficacy and quality-of-life improvement

BACKGROUND

Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) is a frequent complication of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) despite adequate treatment. Venous angioplasty and stent placement has been progressively used to restore and maintain venous patency in PTS patients. This study reports our single-center experience with the use of endovascular treatment for chronic post-thrombotic symptomatic ilio-femoral venous obstructive lesions.

METHODS

A prospective mono-centric observational cohort study of PTS patients with chronic symptomatic ilio-femoral venous obstructive lesions referred for endovascular treatment was conducted from March 2012 to April 2016. Procedure consisted in recanalization, pre-dilation and self-expandable stenting of stenotic or occluded iliac and/or femoral veins. Severity of PTS, quality-of-life and treatment outcomes were assessed using Villalta scale and Chronic Venous Insufficiency Questionnaire (CIVIQ-20) at baseline and 3 months after the procedure. Imaging follow-up was based on duplex ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT).

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients (11 females, 10 males; median age, 41 years; range, 32-60) were included. Recanalization and stenting was successfully accomplished in all prime procedures, 4 patients benefitted from an additional procedure. Immediate technical success rate was 96% considering 25 procedures, performed without any complications. Median follow-up was 18 months (range, 6-30 months) with a 90.5% stent patency rate. Villalta score significantly decreased from baseline compared with 3 months after the procedure [14 (range, 11-22) and 5 (range, 1-10), respectively, P<0.0001], showing a significant decrease in the severity of PTS. CIVIQ-20 score significantly decreased from baseline compared with 3 months after stenting [48.5 (range, 39-73) and 26.5 (range, 21-45), respectively, P<0.0001] thus showing a significant improvement of quality-of-life. Post-procedural CIVIQ-20 score was significantly associated with Villalta score (95% CI, 1.53-2.95; P<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results confirm the high clinical success rate and safety of endovascular PTS treatment and highlight the significant impact of stenting on the quality of life of patients with chronic symptomatic ilio-femoral venous obstructive lesions.

Safety and Effectiveness of Stent Placement for Iliofemoral Venous Outflow Obstruction: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Endovenous recanalization of iliofemoral stenosis or occlusion with angioplasty and stent placement has been increasingly used to maintain long-term venous patency in patients with iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine safety and effectiveness of venous stent placement in patients with iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE for studies evaluating safety or effectiveness of stent placement in patients with iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction. Data were extracted by disease pathogenesis: nonthrombotic, acute thrombotic, or chronic post-thrombotic. Main outcomes included technical success, periprocedural complications, symptom relief at final follow-up, and primary/secondary patency through 5 years. A total of 37 studies reporting 45 treatment effects (nonthrombotic, 8; acute thrombotic, 19; and chronic post-thrombotic, 18) from 2869 patients (nonthrombotic, 1122; acute thrombotic, 629; and chronic post-thrombotic, 1118) were included. Technical success rates were comparable among groups, ranging from 94% to 96%. Complication rates ranged from 0.3% to 1.1% among groups for major bleeding, from 0.2% to 0.9% for pulmonary embolism, from 0.1% to 0.7% for periprocedural mortality, and from 1.0% to 6.8% for early thrombosis. Patient symptom relief data were reported inconsistently. At 1 year, primary and secondary patency were 96% and 99% for nonthrombotic, 87% and 89% for acute thrombotic, and 79% and 94% for chronic post-thrombotic.

CONCLUSIONS

Stent placement for iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction results in high technical success and acceptable complication rates regardless of cause of obstruction.

Editor's Choice-- A Systematic Review of Endovenous Stenting in Chronic Venous Disease Secondary to Iliac Vein Obstruction

OBJECTIVES

Deep endovenous stenting to relieve chronic venous disease (CVD) secondary to post-thrombotic or non-thrombotic iliac vein obstruction is becoming increasingly well described. However, current and adequately reported systematic reviews on the topic are lacking. This report aimed to produce a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available data, reported to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials databases and key references were searched.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies were included (14 before-and-after studies, 1 controlled before-and-after study, and 1 case series) encompassing successful deep venous stenting in 2,373 and 2,586 post-thrombotic or non-thrombotic limbs and patients respectively. The data were too heterogeneous to perform a meta-analysis. There were significant improvements in validated measures of the severity of CVD and venous disease-specific quality of life. Persistent ulcer healing rates ranged from 56% to 100% in limbs that had often already failed conservative management. Primary and secondary stent patency ranged from 32% to 98.7% and 66%-96% respectively. The major complication rate ranged from 0 to 8.7% per stented limb. A GRADE assessment demonstrated the quality of the evidence for five outcomes to be "Very Low" and one to be "Low" (ulcer healing).

CONCLUSIONS

The quality of evidence to support the use of deep venous stenting to treat obstructive CVD is currently weak. The treatment does however appear promising and is safe and should therefore be considered as a treatment option while the evidence base is improved.

Stenting for chronic obstructive venous disease: A current comprehensive meta-analysis and systematic review

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this article was to summarize the efficacy and safety of venous stents in chronic obstructive venous disease (COVD) including postthrombotic syndrome (PTS) and nonthrombotic iliac vein lesions (NIVL).

METHODS

We searched PubMed for case series (prospective and retrospective) that focused on venous stents in the treatment of COVD published between 1st January, 2000 and 15th July, 2014. Then, we analyzed the perioperative complications, subsequent antithrombotic treatment, clinical outcomes, and long-term patency of this procedure.

RESULTS

Overall, 1987 patients from 14 studies were included in our study. The incidence of the 30-day thrombotic events was 2.0% (4.0% in PTS vs. 0.8% in NIVL, p = 0.0002). The rates of access site complications and stent migration were 1.7% and 1.3%, respectively. The incidence of retroperitoneal bleeding and contrast extravasation was 1.8%. Back pain was more common with a rate of 62.9%. With stent placement, there was a significant pain and edema relief in COVD patients and the clinical-etiology-anatomy-pathophysiology scores declined. The rate of ulcer healing was 72.1% (70.3% in PTS vs. 86.9% in NIVL, p = 0.0022), and the ulcer recurrence rate was 8.7%. The primary, assisted primary, and secondary patency rates were 91.4%, 95.0%, and 97.8%, respectively, at 12 months and 77.1%, 92.3%, and 94.3%, respectively, at 36 months; however, the patency rates in PTS were lower than those in NIVL.

CONCLUSIONS

Stents may be a relatively effective and safe approach for PTS and NIVL patients because of the low incidence of perioperative complications and satisfying long-term patency. Some outcomes of stents in NIVL patients may be better than those in PTS patients.