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

Clinical outcomes and predictive factors of stent grafts treatment for symptomatic central venous obstruction in end stage kidney disease patients with arteriovenous access

To assess the efficacy of stent grafts (SGs) in managing central venous obstruction disease (CVOD) in hemodialysis (HD) patients with arteriovenous (AV) access, and to identify predictive factors influencing the SG treatment outcomes. HD subjects with CVOD who underwent SGs placement at our center between August 2018 and June 2022 were enrolled. Survival curve analysis using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test was performed. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was employed to identify predictive factors associated with outcomes. A total of 59 SG implantation procedures for CVOD were analyzed, comprising 30 cases of stenosis and 29 cases of occlusion. The access circuit primary patency (ACPP) at 6, 12, and 24 months post-SG placement were 80.9%, 53.8%, and 31.4%, respectively, while, the target lesion primary patency (TLPP) were 91.3%, 67.6%, and 44.5%, respectively. Subgroup analysis revealed higher TLPP in the stenosis group compared to the occlusion group, although the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.165). The TLPP was significantly improved by SG placement in those who had antecedent balloon dilations (P < 0.001). Cox proportional hazards regression identified target lesion length ≥ 30 mm and procedure defects as independent predictors of lower TLPP after SG treatment for CVOD in HD patients. SG placement demonstrates safety and efficacy in managing CVOD among HD patients, leading to improved TLPP of endovascular therapy (EVT) for CVOD. Notably, long target lesions (≥ 30 mm) and procedure defects emerged as predictive factors influencing TLPP.

Management of thoracic outlet syndrome in patients with hemodialysis access

Patients with threatened arteriovenous access are often found to have central venous stenoses at the ipsilateral costoclavicular junction, which may be resistant to endovascular intervention. Stenoses in this location may not resolve unless surgical decompression of thoracic outlet is performed to relieve the extrinsic compression on the subclavian vein. The authors reviewed the management of dialysis patients with central venous lesions at the thoracic outlet, as well as the role of surgical decompression with first-rib resection or claviculectomy for salvage of threatened, ipsilateral dialysis access.

Mid-Term Patency of Spiral Saphenous Vein Graft for Malignant Superior Vena Cava Syndrome

Reports documenting the mid-term patency of spiral saphenous vein grafts for superior vena cava syndrome in patients with advanced thoracic malignancy are, so far, scarce. The present report describes a 69-year-old man who suffered superior vena cava syndrome due to malignant invasion by advanced lung cancer. Since the huge mass in the anterior mediastinum was unresectable, a bypass from the left innominate vein to the right atrium using an autologous spiral saphenous vein graft was surgically created. Postoperatively, the patient received chemoradiotherapy and maintenance anticoagulant therapy, resulting in survival for 4 years without graft occlusion or recurrence of superior vena cava syndrome.

Right subclavian artery to right atrium bypass using Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft in hemodialysis patient with central venous occlusion: Case report

Introduction

Case presentation

Clinical discussion

Conclusion

•

Central venous Occlusion (CVO) is a serious complication which occurs mainly in patients with chronic indwelling central venous catheters for dialysis.

•

We report the case of a patient with end-stage Kidney disease (ESKD), who was admitted for chronic occlusion of the superior and inferior vena cava. So she underwent a right subclavian artery to right atrium (RA) bypass using polytetrafuloroetylene (PTFE) graft.

•

Bypass to RA by mini thoracotomy insision is rarely performed, and remains the last ditch resort to preserve adequate vascular access in hemodialysis patients with central venous occlusion.

•

Fistulas as a first approach for dialysis access must be privileged at the expense of central catheters to prevent CVO.

Venous stent versus conventional stent for the treatment of central vein obstruction in hemodialysis patients: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Endovascular treatment is a first-line treatment for upper thoracic central vein obstruction (CVO). Few studies using bare venous stents (BVS) in CVO have been conducted.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the treatment performance of upper thoracic central vein stenosis between BVS and conventional bare stent (CBS) in hemodialysis patients.

METHODS

Hemodialysis patients with upper thoracic central vein obstruction who underwent endovascular treatment at the interventional unit of our institution from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2018 were enrolled in the present study. CBS was used to treat central vein obstruction in 43 patients and BVS in 34 patients. We compared the primary patency rates and complications between the two stent types. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The patient demographic data between the CBS and BVS groups were similar. The characteristics of the lesions, procedures, and complications were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences of primary patency rates at three and six months between the BVS and CBS groups (94.1% vs. 86.0% and 73.5% vs. 58.1%, respectively; P > 0.05). The primary patency rate at 12 months in the BVS group was significantly higher than that in the CBS group (61.8% vs. 32.6%; P = 0.008).

CONCLUSION

Endovascular treatment of central vein obstruction with BVS provided a higher primary patency rate at 12 months than CBS.

Clinical or Imaging Diagnosis of the Current Medical Practice for Superior Vena Cava Syndrome?

Most cases of superior vena cava syndrome are easily diagnosed bya clinical examination alone, but several diagnostic tests and procedures can be helpful. When a patient presentswith a suspected diagnosis of superior vena cava syndrome, the first step is to obtain an imaging study that confirms the diagnosis and aids treatment decisions. Magnetic resonance imaging, contrast-enhanced CT scanning, radionuclide flow studies and traditional venography are all appropriate techniques. Still, the CT scan is the most readily available technology in most centers. The CT scan and magnetic resonance imaging also provide information on possible etiologies and can therefore direct the approach towards a tissue diagnosis.

Recurrent Hematemesis From Downhill Esophageal Varices: A Therapeutic Challenge for Gastroenterologists

Downhill or upper esophageal varices have an etiology that differs from that of the “uphill” varices secondary to portal hypertension. Approximately 0.1% of all cases of variceal hemorrhage are due to downhill varices. The underlying etiology is obstruction of the superior vena cava (SVC) which results in the shunting of blood from the systemic circulation into the esophageal plexus, predominantly the upper two-thirds. The management should be directed to relieve the vascular obstruction. One of the causes of SVC obstruction leading to downhill variceal bleeding is dialysis catheter-associated SVC stenosis. We report the case of a 34-year-old male with hematemesis associated with downhill varices due to chronic SVC obstruction because of a central venous catheter.

[Complications of permanent vascular access for haemodialysis]

Permanent vascular access is the basis of renal replacement therapy by the method of programmed haemodialysis, on whose stable functioning depends the life of patients with end-stage renal disease. At the present time, there is significant deficit of scientific and methodological Russian-language literature on this problem, with no Russian consensus documents concerned. This article is a review of the contemporary world literature dedicated to the problem of permanent vascular access, including currently in force European (2018) and North American (2019) guidelines for good clinical practice, also discussing the problems of strategy and tactics of creating a permanent vascular access, monitoring its dysfunction, pathophysiology of functioning of arteriovenous fistulas. Presented herein are unified approaches to diagnosis and treatment of thrombolytic and haemorrhagic complications associated with the access, as well as local infectious and non-infectious complications. Special attention is paid to indications for the operation and rational therapeutic decision-making.

Intravascular ultrasound in the diagnosis and treatment of central venous diseases

Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) has been used extensively in coronary applications. Its use in venous applications has increased as endovascular therapy has increasingly become the mainstay therapy for central venous diseases. IVUS has been used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in managing venous stenotic disease, venous occlusive disease, and IVC filter placement and removal. IVUS has been proven to be effective in providing detailed measurement of the venous anatomy, which aid in determining the appropriate size and the approach for venous stent placement. In IVC filter placement, IVUS can provide detailed measurement and guide IVC filter placement in emergent and critical care settings. It also has certain utility in filter removal. At any rate, to date there are only a few studies examining its impact on patient outcomes. Prospective randomized controlled trials are warranted in the future.

Diathermy-assisted recanalization of chronic superior vena cava obstruction, case report

The number of cases of superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) increased due to increased cardiac devices and central venous catheters. Management of benign SVCS is still controversial. A 51-year-old male known to have ischemic cardiomyopathy and chronic renal failure on regular hemodialysis. In the last 12 months, he had progressive shortness of breath and swelling of his upper part of the body. Examination revealed engorgement of the neck veins, facial puffiness, and pitting edema of both upper limbs. Venography showed occluded SVC. We applied a 50 Watt of energy via electrocautery pen to a Hi-Torque 0.014 Astato guidewire to cross the occluded segment retrogradely. We used 2 stents 39 mm, mounted on BIB 20/40 mm. Final angiography revealed full restoration of SVC flow. Diathermy use to cross a chronic total SVC obstruction is feasible and safe. Endovascular techniques are suitable as initial management of benign SVC syndrome.

A review of endovascular stenting for superior vena cava syndrome in fibrosing mediastinitis

Fibrosing mediastinitis (FM) is a rare disorder of inflammation and fibrosis involving the mediastinum. The formation of fibroinflammatory mass in the mediastinum can lead to obstruction of mediastinal structures and cause severe debilitating and life-threatening symptoms. Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is a dreaded complication of FM with no medical therapy proven to be efficacious. Spiral vein grafting has long been utilized as first-line therapy for SVC syndrome due to FM. Endovascular repair with stents and angioplasty for malignant causes of SVC syndrome is well established. However, there are limited data on their utility in SVC syndrome due to FM. We present two cases of SVC syndrome due to FM treated with endovascular stenting and a detailed review of current literature on its utility in SVCS due to benign causes.

Superior vena cava syndrome: endovascular management

Background

The objective of management of superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is to promptly alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms. Conventional approaches do not always achieve results as rapidly as endovascular management with stent placement.

Objectives

To report the experience with endovascular management of SVCS of a Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Service at a Brazilian university hospital.

Methods

Symptomatic type III SVCS cases were managed with angioplasty and stent placement in 28 patients aged from 37 to 68 years, between 2002 and 2012. The etiology of SVCS was lung or thoracic cancer in 18 patients, while occlusion of the vein for prolonged use of catheters was the cause in the other 10 cases.

Results

Superior vena cava occlusion repair was not possible in one oligosymptomatic patient with a very severe lesion. Technical success was achieved in 96.4%. There were two deaths, one due to pulmonary embolism, 24 hours after a successful procedure, and the other due to compression of the airways by tumor mass some hours after the procedure. Clinical success was achieved in all cases of technical success, including one patient who died suddenly, after total regression of SVCS symptoms. Symptoms disappeared 24 hours and 48 hours after management in16 and 8 patients respectively; improvement was slower but progressive after 48 hours in the remaining patients.

Conclusions

Endovascular stent placement was effective for management of SVCS, with good technical and clinical success rates and provided prompt relief from symptoms.

Endovascular Therapy for Central Venous Thrombosis

Central vein thrombosis is defined as thrombosis of the major vessels draining either the upper or lower extremities. It presents most commonly in the upper limb, where it affects the subclavian veins and the superior vena cava; in the lower limb, it affects the common iliac veins and the inferior vena cava. These different anatomical segments pose unique challenges in both acute and chronic settings, and this article will summarize the current best practice treatment options.

Mid-term Results of a Novel Dedicated Venous Stent for the Treatment of Chronic Thoracic Central Vein Obstruction of Benign Aetiology

OBJECTIVES

Endovascular treatment is indicated for the treatment of symptomatic thoracic central vein obstruction (TCVO) but is limited by high rates of restenosis and the need for re-intervention. The aim was to assess the safety and mid-term patency of a novel dedicated venous stent for the treatment of TCVO of benign aetiology.

METHODS

This was a prospective single centre observational study of 20 patients (median age 65 years, 50% male) referred for the treatment of symptomatic chronic (>three months duration) TCVO between May 2016 and January 2018. Balloon angioplasty with implantation of a self expanding nitinol stent (Vici, Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA, USA) was performed in all patients. Clinical records including demographics, aetiologies and types of TCVO, and procedural details were recorded. Patients were followed up clinically at one, six, and 12 months. Primary and assisted primary patency were reported.

RESULTS

All 20 lesions were total occlusions, of which 55% (n = 11) were de novo, 10% (n = 2) peri-stent restenosis, and 35% (n = 7) in-stent re-occlusion. The aetiology of TCVO was predominantly (95%) because of multiple or prolonged central venous line insertion. The procedural success rate was 90% (18/20) with no procedural complications. The median follow up was 13.5 months. Primary patency was 100% at 6 months. One patient required re-intervention for stent in segment restenosis at 7 months. The assisted primary patency rate was 100% at 12 months.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular treatment of benign TCVO with the novel dedicated venous stent was safe and effective in relieving obstructive symptoms with excellent one year patency rates.

Is Long-Term Anticoagulation Required after Stent Placement for Benign Superior Vena Cava Syndrome?

PURPOSE

To identify whether symptom relief and stent patency vary with use of long-term anticoagulation after stent placement for benign superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with benign SVC syndrome treated with stent placement between January 1999 and July 2017 were retrospectively identified (n = 58). Average age was 49 years (range, 24-80 y); 34 (58%) were women, and 24 (42%) were men. Average follow-up was 2.4 years (range, 0.1-11.1 y, SD 2.6). Of cases, 37 (64%) were due to a long-term line/pacemaker, and 21 (36%) were due to fibrosing mediastinitis. After stent placement, 36 (62%) patients were placed on long-term anticoagulation, and 22 (38%) were not placed on anticoagulation. Percent stenosis was evaluated on follow-up imaging by dividing smallest diameter of the stent by a normal nonstenotic segment of the stent and multiplying by 100.

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in all cases. There was no significant difference in number of patients who reported a return of symptoms characteristic of benign SVC syndrome between the anticoagulated (16 of 36; 44.4%) and nonanticoagulated (11 of 22; 50%) groups (P = .68). There was no significant difference in the mean percent stenosis between the anticoagulated (40.4% ± 34.7% [range, 0-100%]) and nonanticoagulated (32.1% ± 29.2% [range, 1.7%-100%]) groups (P = .36). No significant difference was found in the time (days) between date of procedure and date of return of symptoms (anticoagulated, 735.9 d ± 1,003.1 [range, 23-3,851 d]; nonanticoagulated, 478 d ± 826.6 [range, 28-2,922 d]) (P = .49). There was no difference in primary patency between groups (P = .59). Finally, 1 patient (2.8%) in the anticoagulated group required surgical intervention, whereas none in the nonanticoagulated group required surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant difference was observed in clinical and treatment outcomes in patients who did and did not receive anticoagulation after stent placement for benign SVC syndrome. Management of benign SVC syndrome after stent placement may not require anticoagulation if confirmed by additional studies.

Endovascular Stenting in 2 Patients with Benign Superior Vena Cava Syndrome

Superior vena cava syndrome has typically been associated with malignant conditions; however, the number of benign cases has started to grow as the use of upper-extremity venous lines and implantable cardiac devices increases. Whereas endovascular techniques are standardly used to treat patients with malignancies, the optimal care of patients with benign causes is less clear because they typically have longer life expectancies. We describe 2 cases of benign superior vena cava syndrome successfully managed with endovascular stenting, and we review the relevant literature. Of 145 cases in 10 series (average follow-up time, 24 mo), 96% of patients experienced symptomatic relief after endovascular management, with a primary patency rate of 66% and a secondary rate of 93%. Although few data exist to compare open surgical and endovascular techniques directly, both approaches appear to produce similar rates of patency. Both approaches frequently necessitate secondary intervention to maintain patency, but endovascular management is associated with fewer complications. We conclude that endovascular management of benign superior vena cava syndrome is a safe, effective, and reasonable initial management approach.

Venous Obstruction in Cardiac Rhythm Device Therapy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

A variety of complex vascular pathologies arise following the implantation of electronic cardiac devices. Pacemaker and defibrillator lead insertion may cause proximal venous obstruction, resulting in symptomatic venous congestion and the compromise of potential future access sites for cardiac rhythm lead management.

RECENT FINDINGS

Various innovative techniques to recanalize the vein and establish alternate venous access have been pioneered over the past few years. A collaborative team of electrophysiologists and vascular specialists strategically integrate the patient's vascular disease into the planning of electrophysiology procedures. When vascular complications occur after device implantation, the same team effectively manages both the resulting vascular sequelae and related cardiac rhythm device challenges. This review will outline the various vascular challenges related to device therapy and offer an effective strategy for their management.

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.

Superior Vena Cava Obstruction: A Rare Cause of Recurrent Esophageal Variceal Bleeding

"Downhill" esophageal varices are formed in upper two-thirds of the esophagus as a consequence of a superior vena cava obstruction. We present a case of 55-year-old African-American female with a medical history of multiple comorbidities, including end-stage renal disease, who presented with an upper gastrointestinal bleed and was found to have distended neck veins on physical examination. She gave a history of the insertion of an intravenous central line in her neck area for hemodialysis purposes about six years previously. An endoscopy showed the presence of esophageal varices and computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen showed the presence of a superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction. The patient was managed supportively. This case represents a rare cause of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding in an individual with a central line for dialysis leading to SVC thrombosis.

Endovascular Management of SVC Syndrome due to Fibrosing Mediastinitis-A Feasibility and Safety Analysis

PURPOSE

To assess the outcomes of endovascular management for superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome secondary to fibrosing mediastinitis (FM).

METHODS

Between January 2004 and December 2016, 10 consecutive patients with endovascularly managed SVC syndrome secondary to FM were identified in an institutional database. Venograms were performed to assess the severity and location of the lesion and allow measurement for stent selection. Standard stenting and angioplasty techniques were utilized to establish luminal patency. The safety, feasibility, clinical success, and the primary and secondary patency were evaluated. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to determine median duration of stent patency. A log-rank test was used to test differences in prior stent use.

RESULTS

Our cohort was predominantly female (7/10) with an average age of 42.2 years. Of the 10 patients, 3 had undergone endovascular stenting at an outside institution prior to referral to our institution due to new, recurrent, or worsening symptoms. All patients underwent venography demonstrating stenosis (8/10) or occlusion (2/10) at initial presentation. Stenting or angioplasty was technically successful in 9 (90.0%) patients. Eight of 10 patients had primary stenting, while 1 achieved vascular patency and symptom resolution with angioplasty alone. Median duration of primary patency was 31.3 months (95% confidence interval: 5.9-103). Six (54.5%) patients required secondary revision procedures. Median duration of secondary patency was 6.1 months, with 25% of revisions occurring by 4 months and 75% occurring by 20.9 months. All treated patients (9/9) reported symptomatic relief at 1-month follow-up, establishing a clinical success rate of 100%. There were no 30-day adverse effects related to the procedure.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that endovascular therapy is a safe and feasible approach for managing FM-related SVC syndrome.

Superior vena cava resection and reconstruction in mediastinal tumors and benign diseases

BACKGROUND

This study aims to evaluate our results of resection and reconstruction of the superior vena cava invaded by mediastinal tumors and benign diseases.

METHODS

Seventeen patients (8 males, 9 females; mean age 46±17 years; range 9 to 74 years) undergoing superior vena cava resection and reconstruction due to mediastinal pathologies between September 2006 and September 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who had angioplasty with primary suturing or partial resection with stapler were excluded. Mortality and morbidity rates were analyzed based on the demographic, and intra- and postoperative measures.

RESULTS

Majority of patients (94%) had mediastinal tumors. Twelve patients (71%) had thymic epithelial tumors. Tubular graft interposition was performed using ringed polytetrafluoroethylene prosthesis in nine patients (53%), while patch plasty using autologous pericardium, polytetrafluoroethylene or Dacron grafts was performed in eight patients (47%). Eleven patients (65%) necessitated concomitant resections of neighboring structures. Mean length of hospital stay was 11±6 days. There was no intraoperative death. Mortality occurred in three patients (18%). Five patients (29%) developed complications. Mortality occurred commonly in elderly patients (p<0.0001). Postoperative complications were more common in patients with concomitant resections (p=0.05). Neither acute nor chronic thrombosis developed in any patients. Median survival in patients with malignant diseases was 57 months, with a oneyear and three-year probability of survival of 83% and 74%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Replacement of superior vena cava should be included in the therapeutic algorithm of selected patients with mediastinal tumors and benign diseases. Mortality rates may be higher in older patients, while the need for concomitant resections may increase morbidity rates.

[Superior vena cava thrombosis or stricture secondary to implanted central venous access: Six cases of endovascular and direct surgical treatment in cancer patients]

Superior vena cava (SVC) stenosis or thrombosis is a well-known complication of central venous catheterization for endocavitary treatments, hemodialysis, or chemotherapy. In cancer patients, these SVC lesions are often symptomatic due to intimal damage and chemotherapy toxicity. We report our experience with six patients treated between 2007 and 2012 via an endovascular approach (n=5) or a direct surgical approach (n=1). All patients had SVC syndrome with facial edema, headache and upper limb edema. In three cases, the catheter was in place when the clinical symptoms occurred. Duplex Doppler and computed tomography (CT)-angiography identified the following lesions: isolated SVC stenosis (n=2); SVC stenosis with right Pirogoff confluence stenosis (n=1); SVC stenosis associated with left innominate vein thrombosis and right Pirogoff confluence stenosis (n=1); SVC thrombosis affecting azygos flow (n=2). In one patient, the thrombus extended into the right atrium. Five patients underwent endovascular repair via a right jugular approach (n=2) or a double jugular approach (n=3). Treatment involved: SVC angioplasty with stent (n=2); right Pirogoff angioplasty and SVC stent (n=1); kissing angioplasty of both innominate trunks with a SVC stent (n=1); and SVC angioplasty without stent because of an incomplete result with a residual lumen less than 8mm (n=1). One patient had a complete SVC occlusion with extension of thrombus into the right atrium. She was treated via a median sternotomy for open surgical control of both innominate trunks and lateral clamping of the right atrium. A long cavotomy prolonged on the right atrium allowed thrombo-intimectomy and pericardial patch angioplasty. Postoperative follow-up was uneventful in five cases. However, postoperative hemorrhage required pericardial drainage in one patient. The CT scan showed a good morphological aspect in five patients and an incomplete result in one case. Patients have been followed up annually with a duplex scan from two to six years. One patient had a restenosis at 7 months treated by a new angioplasty via a femoral approach. A new catheter was positioned via a cervical approach. Two patients died of metastatic diffusion at 8 and 32 months. The other four patients have remained asymptomatic, with a satisfactory duplex scan. In conclusion, VCS lesions after implanted central access for chemotherapy can often be treated endovascularly. Conventional surgery still has indications when lesions extend into the right atrium.

Left axillary to right atrium anterior chest wall graft using bovine carotid artery conduit

INTRODUCTION

Central venous occlusive (CVO) disease involving the superior vena cava (SVC) and inferior vena cava (IVC) can occur frequently in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on chronic dialysis. Dialysis access is essential for the survival of these patients.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We report a case of a chest wall graft creation using bovine carotid artery conduit in a patient who was experiencing life-threatening loss of dialysis access secondary to her SVC and IVC occlusion along with a hypercoagulable state. We did a subcutaneous anterior chest wall graft from the left axillary artery to the right atrium (RA) using a mini thoracotomy incision.

CONCLUSIONS

ESRD patients with CVO pose a unique challenge. We believe our approach can provide an excellent option for dialysis access in patients with exhausted conventional access options.

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.

European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery expert consensus statement on the prevention and management of mediastinitis

Mediastinitis continues to be an important and life-threatening complication after median sternotomy despite advances in prevention and treatment strategies, with an incidence of 0.25-5%. It can also occur as extension of infection from adjacent structures such as the oesophagus, airways and lungs, or as descending necrotizing infection from the head and neck. In addition, there is a chronic form of 'chronic fibrosing mediastinitis' usually caused by granulomatous infections. In this expert consensus, the evidence for strategies for treatment and prevention of mediatinitis is reviewed in detail aiming at reducing the incidence and optimizing the management of this serious condition.

Superior Vena Cava Reconstruction Using Femoropopliteal Vein as a Panel Graft

There has been an increase in superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome secondary to the growing use of indwelling catheters and pacemaker wire insertions. These 2 factors can account up to 74% cases of benign SVC syndrome. Endovascular therapy is considered the first line of treatment. Surgery is an excellent option and is generally reserved for SVC syndrome not amenable to traditional endovascular procedures. We report a case of central venous reconstruction including an SVC reconstruction using the femoropopliteal vein as a panel graft in a patient with SVC syndrome due to pacemaker wires who failed multiple endovascular interventions.

Superior Vena Cava Syndrome Caused by Pacemaker Leads

Superior vena cava syndrome is one of the rare adverse events associated with pacemaker leads. We describe a 47-year-old woman with a pacemaker implanted 10 years earlier who presented to us with superior vena cava syndrome managed surgically. We report the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of this patient and the causes and management options of superior vena cava obstruction associated with pacemaker leads.

Transcaval core biopsy in malignant superior vena cava obstruction: Potential for single stage diagnosis and treatment

Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is secondary to obstruction of venous flow from the superior vena cava to the right atrium. Endovascular stenting is particularly useful when severe or rapidly progressive disease requires urgent treatment. In suspected mediastinal malignancy, transcaval biopsy can be combined with endovenous stenting to provide diagnosis and treatment in a single procedure. Three patients were referred for investigation and treatment of SVCS over a 20 month period. Under fluoroscopic guidance Cook Medical transjugular biopsy sets (with 20-gauge QuickCore biopsy needles) were used and two or three core biopsy samples were obtained. Stents were utilised to treat SVC obstructions in two of three patients. Obtained samples were adequate for histological diagnosis. Diagnoses included small cell and small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung. No procedural complications were encountered. Importantly, no further invasive diagnostic procedures were required. This is a safe and effective alternative to obtain a histological diagnosis in malignant SVCS and in the appropriate clinical setting biopsy can be combined with SVC stenting in a single procedure.

Large vein reconstructions in the endovascular era

Max Ratschow was a remarkable physician and an international authority in the field of angiology and the Ratschow lectureship helps to fulfill this pioneer’s life purpose: to advance evaluation and treatment of vascular diseases. The 2017 Max Ratschow lecture covers some recent advances and controversies in venous diseases. Phlebology, once a neglected field of angiology, is a discipline that has been in constant progress during the past decades. Endovascular techniques revolutionized treatment of patients with large vein obstruction and provided safe, minimally invasive procedures with excellent long term results. Attention now need to focus on comparative studies to provide scientific evidence of efficacy of venous angioplasty and stenting with properly organized randomized controlled trials. Further attempts are needed to develop special venous stents and to decrease thrombotic complications and formation of pseudointima that cause in-stent restenosis. Open and hybrid reconstructions are safe and durable, but the number of procedures in general is small and special training and expertise for reconstructive venous surgery is recommended. Autologous vein should be used for infrainguinal reconstructions and for treatment of unilateral iliac vein obstruction with a femoro-femoral cross-over bypass (Palma procedure). IVC and iliac vein reconstructions with ePTFE grafts provide superb result in patients who need excision of malignant tumors invading large veins. Open and hybrid reconstructions are here to stay and they remain excellent options for those patients who are unsuitable for or fail endovascular repair.

A Review of Open and Endovascular Treatment of Superior Vena Cava Syndrome of Benign Aetiology

BACKGROUND

The widespread use of central venous catheters, ports, pacemakers, and defibrillators has increased the incidence of benign superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS). This study aimed at reviewing the results of open and endovascular treatment of SVCS.

METHOD

Medical literature databases were searched for relevant studies. Studies with more than five adult patients, reporting separate results for the SVC were included. Nine studies reported the results of endovascular treatment of SVCS including 136 patients followed up for a mean of 11-48 months. Causes of SVCS were central venous catheters and pacemakers (80.6%), mediastinal fibrosis (13.7%), and other (5.6%). Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) and stenting was performed in 73.6%, PTA only in 17.3%, and thrombolysis, PTA, and stenting in 9%. Four studies reported the results of open repair of SVCS including 87 patients followed up between 30 months and 10.9 years. The causes were mediastinal fibrosis (58.4%), catheters and pacemakers (28.5%), and other (13%). Operations performed included a spiral saphenous interposition graft, other vein graft, PTFE graft, and human allograft. Thirteen patients required re-operations (15%) before discharge mainly for graft thrombosis.

RESULTS

In the endovascular group technical success was 95.6%. Thirty day mortality was 0%. Regression of symptoms was reported in 97.3%. Thirty-two patients (26.9%) underwent 58 secondary procedures. In the open group the 30 day mortality was 0%. Symptom regression was reported in 93.5%. Twenty-four patients (28.4%) underwent a total of 33 secondary procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular is the first line treatment for SVCS caused by intravenous devices, whereas surgery is most often performed for mediastinal fibrosis. Both treatments show good results regarding regression of the symptoms and mid-term primary patency, with a significant incidence of secondary interventions.

Surgical Treatment of Benign Superior Vena Cava Syndrome

The obstruction of blood flow through the superior vena cava (SVC) into the right atrium may present as a severe clinical syndrome. One of the benign causes of SVC obstruction is the long-term use of indwelling catheters and wires, increasing the chances of SVC thrombosis. The treatment of the benign SVC syndrome is focused on achieving long-term durability and patency of the superior venocaval system and normal life expectancy. We report the successful surgical management of a patient with severe symptomatic SVC syndrome and emphasize technical details that might be of value in treating this challenging pathologic condition.

Retrospective study in 23 patients of the self-expanding sinus-XL stent for treatment of malignant superior vena cava obstruction caused by non-small cell lung cancer

PURPOSE

To evaluate retrospectively the self-expanding nitinol Sinus-XL stent (OptiMed, Ettlingen, Germany) for the treatment of superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction caused by non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between October 2009 and December 2012, 23 patients (7 women and 16 men; age, 62.5 y ± 8.5) with stage IIIA (1 patient), IIIB (4 patients) or IV (18 patients) NSCLC and acute SVC obstruction were scheduled for urgent stent implantation. The primary study endpoints were technical success (defined as accurate stent placement with complete coverage of the obstructed SVC), residual stenosis < 30%, and clinical efficacy. Complications were assessed as a secondary study endpoint.

RESULTS

There were 26 stents implanted in 23 patients. The technical success was 100%. Stent dilation was performed after deployment in 18 cases (78%). Stent migration into the right atrium occurred immediately after deployment in one patient; however, this stent was successfully repositioned and stabilized by a second stent. The clinical symptoms improved at least one category according to the International Consensus Committee on Chronic Venous Disease after stent implantation in all but one patient. The mean clinical follow-up was 66 days ± 83 (range, 1-305 d). Three minor complications (13%) and one major complication (4%) occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Implantation of the self-expanding Sinus-XL stent for treatment of SVC obstruction caused by NSCLC is a safe and effective urgent treatment in this palliative setting.

A wire transposition technique for recanalization of chronic complex central venous occlusions

PURPOSE

A minimal-invasive interventional technique for recanalization of complex chronic central venous total occlusions is described to overcome difficulties in case of failure of common approaches.

METHOD

We present a patient with a central venous occlusion that caused severe venous congestion of her upper extremity and significant impairment of her forearm hemodialysis shunt. Since the usual transbrachial and transfemoral attempts for recanalization of occluded right subclavian, brachiocephalic, superior vena cava, and proximal internal jugular veins (IJV) failed, the approach was changed to a transjugular access. Only the IJV and subclavian vein occlusions were passed from transjugular.

RESULTS

The key procedure was the switch of a jugular-brachial wire to a femoral-brachial setting. The wire transposition was achieved by snaring the looped stiff end of the jugular-brachial wire outside the jugular sheath from the opposite femoral access.

CONCLUSION

Different approaches should be considered for the recanalization of challenging central venous occlusions. After failed attempts via common access sites, a guidewire transposition maneuver using a combined approach may be particularly helpful for safe and effective endovascular treatment of complex situations.