Safety and efficacy of the AngioJet device in the treatment of thrombosed arteriovenous fistula and grafts: A systematic review

Initial experience of thrombectomy using vascular snare with multiple loops for chronic organized thrombi in patients with thrombosed native hemodialysis fistulas

BACKGROUND

Thrombi in native hemodialysis access frequently exhibit chronic organized feature because they have formed over a long period. Removal of these is quite difficult owing to relatively large volume, resilient feature, limitations of the introducer sheath size, etc. In this study, we report our experience using a vascular snare for the removal of these thrombi in native arteriovenous fistula (AVF).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The medical records of patients who underwent recanalization for thrombosed AVFs from January 2019 to August 2023 were reviewed. During the study period, a total of 29 native fistulas (19 brachiocephalic, nine radiocephalic, and one radiobasilic) in 25 patients were treated using a vascular snare with multiple loops (19 men and six women). Characteristics of the AVFs, endovascular procedures, technical and clinical results, and complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

Anatomic and clinical success rates were 96.6% and 100%, respectively. Total thrombosis was observed in 21 (72.4%) fistulas. Aneurysmal changes were found in 22 (75.9%) fistulas. The mean fistula age at the time of the procedure was 60.9 months (standard deviation, 52.2). Thrombectomy was initiated using a vascular snare in 14 fistulas. In 15 fistulas for which the procedures were initiated using a rotational percutaneous thrombectomy device (PTD), a vascular snare was subsequently used because recanalization failed or was insufficient due to chronic organizing thrombi. Additional aspiration and balloon angioplasty were performed in 27 (93.1%) and 28 (96.6%), respectively. Pharmacological thrombolysis was performed in one fistula for long segmental thrombosis combined with arterial thrombosis. The mean procedure time, excluding thrombolysis, was 91.9 min (standard deviation, 55.5). No complications related to the use of the vascular snare was observed.

CONCLUSION

The use of a vascular snare with multiple loops was safe and highly effective for the removal of chronic organized thrombi in the recanalization of thrombosed AVFs.

The role of vacuum-assisted mechanical thrombectomy in the management of acutely thrombosed arteriovenous fistulas and grafts

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the mechanical thrombectomy with the Indigo System in the treatment of thrombosed arteriovenous fistulas and grafts.

METHODS

A retrospective search of endovascular procedures performed from November 2018 to June 2020 was conducted. Inclusion criteria were: acute arteriovenous fistula or graft thrombosis that underwent endovascular mechanical thrombectomy with Indigo System. The following information was collected from each case: sex, age, fistula modality, fistula location, treatment modality, and outcomes. Endpoints evaluated were: technical and clinical success rates; primary, assisted primary, and secondary patency rates; complication rates.

RESULTS

Twenty-six mechanical thrombectomy procedures for declotting of arteriovenous fistula thrombosis, using the Indigo System, were performed in 22 patients. Technical and clinical success was achieved in 23/26 cases (88%). Mean follow-up was 9 months (range 11-539 days). The 6-month primary, primary assisted, and secondary patency rates were 71%, 86%, 93% and the 12-month primary, primary assisted, and secondary patency rates were 71%, 72%, 80%, respectively. No technical or device-related complications were observed during thrombectomy, however two venous ruptures occurred on the angioplasty of the underlying stenosis.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, vacuum-assisted thrombectomy of acutely thrombosed arteriovenous fistulas and grafts with Indigo System is safe and effective, providing good short term patency rates.

Manual compression technique improves the success rate in the treatment of thrombosed aneurysmal arteriovenous fistula: A single-center experience

OBJECTIVE

Endovascular intervention for thrombosed aneurysmal arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is still a challenge. Manual compression technique (MCT)-assisted angioplasty may be helpful, but there is no evidence or data to support it.

METHODS

From January 2018 to May 2021, patients with thrombosed aneurysmal AVFs were retrospectively enrolled. The patients were separated into the MCT group or the traditional group according to the procedure received. Technical failure, clinical failure, 90-day patency, and safety were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 159 cases (64 ± 12 years old, 60% male) were enrolled, of which 87 cases received MCT and 72 underwent traditional angioplasty. No technical failure was observed in the MCT group, while five technical failures were observed in the traditional group (0% vs. 7%, p = 0.02). There were no differences in the clinical failure rate (3% vs. 7%, p = 0.30), 90-day patency rate, or procedure time between the MCT group and the traditional group. There was no symptomatic pulmonary embolism or other complication in the two groups.

CONCLUSION

MCT is a low-cost, less invasive, and safe procedure for thrombosed aneurysmal AVF, and it achieves a higher technical success rate than traditional angioplasty.

The Prevalence of Cardiovascular Complications and Causes of AngioJet Failure: A Post-Marketing Surveillance Study Based on the MAUDE (Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience) Database

Background and objective Aspiration thrombectomy devices, such as the AngioJet Solent Omni (Boston Scientific Corporation, Marlborough, MA) have been approved by the US FDA for the treatment of thrombi in peripheral arterial disease, venous disease, and AV fistulas. However, there is a dearth of real-world data on the most common modes of failure and complications associated with the AngioJet Solent Omni. In this study, we aimed to address this scarcity of data. Methods The MAUDE (Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience) database was queried for reports of device failure and adverse events spanning the period from October 2012 to December 2021. Results A total of 499 events were reported during the study period. After the exclusion of duplicate reports, the final analysis included 450 reports. The most common mode of failure was catheter breakage/kinking during suction thrombectomy with 137 reports (30%). The most common vessel associated with events was the superficial femoral artery or vein, which was documented in 82 reports (18.2%). The most common adverse clinical outcome was the embedding of a piece of the device in the patient, which occurred in seven reports (1.6%). There were seven (1.6%) events of death reported during the period studied. Conclusions Based on our findings, theAngioJet Solent Omni device provides promising results; however, it is important to evaluate device safety. It is associated with complications including device embedment, catheter breakage/kinking, and death, and these adverse events are linked to patient characteristics and risk factors.

Acute problems of hemodialysis access: Thrombosis, aneurysms, symptomatic high-flow fistulas, and complications related to central lines

Hemodynamic complications frequently affect vascular access and are important causes of morbidity and mortality. We present a review of acute complications affecting vascular accesses, focusing on classical and new treatments. Acute complications in hemodialysis vascular access are often underestimated and undertreated, and can present a challenge for both vascular surgeons and anesthesiologists. Accordingly, we considered different anesthesiologic approaches to both hemorrhagic and nonhemorrhagic patients. A strict collaboration among nephrologists, surgeons, and anesthesiologists can potentially improve prevention and management of acute complications and quality of life.

Observation of the effect of angiojet to treat acute lower extremity arterial embolization

BACKGROUND

Through significant advances in the treatment of peripheral arterial occlusive disease, acute ischemia of the lower extremity is still associated with significant morbidity, limb threat and mortality. The two main causes of acute ischemia in lower extremities are arterial embolism and atherosclerotic arteries. Timely recognition and treatment of acute limb ischemia in emergency situations is essential in order to minimize the duration of ischemia.

AIM

To investigate the application effect of angiojet thrombolysis in the treatment of acute lower extremity arterial embolization.

METHODS

Sixty-two patients with acute lower extremity arterial embolization admitted to our hospital from May 2018 to May 2020 were selected. Among them, the observation group (twenty-eight cases) had received angiojet thrombolysis, and the control group (thirty-four cases) had received femoral artery incision and thrombectomy. After thrombus clearance, significant residual stenosis of the lumen was combined with balloon dilation and/or stent implantation. When the thrombus removal was not satisfactory, catheter-directed thrombolysis was performed. The incidence of postoperative complications, recurrence rate and recovery of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in postoperative recurrence (target vessel reconstruction rate), anklebrachial index and the incidence of postoperative complications between the two groups (P > 0.05); there were statistically significant differences in postoperative pain score and postoperative rehabilitation between the two groups (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The application of angiojet in the treatment of acute lower limb artery thromboembolism disease is safe and effective, minimally invasive, quicker recovery after operation, less postoperative complications, which is more suitable for the treatment of femoral popliteal arterial thromboembolism lesions. If the thrombus removal is not satisfactory, the combination of coronary artery aspiration catheter and catheterized directed thrombolysis can be used. Balloon dilation and stent implantation can be considered for obvious lumen stenosis.

Comparing Patency Rates of Arteriovenous Dialysis Access following Percutaneous Thrombectomy Using Various Catheter Directed Therapies

BACKGROUND

Arteriovenous fistulas often require frequent interventions to maintain patency for hemodialysis. Interventions may include open or percutaneous thrombectomy with additional targeted interventions as indicated. We evaluated the primary and cumulative functional patency rates following three unique approaches to percutaneous thrombectomy of thrombosed dialysis access.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 236 unique patients who presented with thrombosed hemodialysis access was analyzed over a period of 4 years from 2016 to 2020. We analyzed a total of 413 procedures that utilized 3 separate percutaneous thrombectomy devices to assist with restoring patency. The Indigo System CAT-D Aspiration Thrombectomy Catheter (Penumbra; Alameda, CA), the Arrow-Trerotola Rotational Thrombectomy System (Teleflex; Wayne, PA) and the Angiojet Rheolytic Thrombectomy Catheter (Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA) devices were compared for primary and cumulative functional patency. Primary patency was defined as time from percutaneous thrombectomy to next intervention (Angioplasty, stenting, and repeat thrombectomy). Cumulative functional patency was defined as time from percutaneous thrombectomy to time of access abandonment. Medical record chart review was utilized to determine patency rates.

RESULTS

A total of 413 percutaneous thrombectomy procedures were performed. Of the procedures performed, 98 utilized Angiojet, 103 utilized Trerotola, and 212 used Penumbra. The mean primary patency rates in (days) for the devices were as follows: Angiojet (194), Trerotola (204), and Penumbra (107). The mean cumulative functional patency rates (in days) for the devices were as follows: rheolytic thrombectomy (450 days), aspiration thrombectomy (292 days), and rotational thrombectomy (475 days). Angiojet versus Penumbra and Trerotola versus Penumbra both showed diminished patency rates when using the Penumbra catheter that were statistically significant (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

All percutaneous thrombectomy approaches do not result in the same primary or cumulative functional patency rates. Approaches with Trerotola and Angiojet resulted in improved primary and cumulative functional patency rates compared to those using Penumbra.

[Acute interventions-dialysis shunt recanalization]

BACKGROUND

An arteriovenous fistula is vital for patients who need regular hemodialysis. Continuous patency and sufficient functionality determine quality of life and associated morbidity and mortality of patients.

PROBLEM

Following successful hemodialysis shunt creation, intimal hyperplasia and consecutive thrombosis or complete occlusion may cause different types of shunt dysfunctionality or even critical failure.

OBJECTIVE

Immediate shunt recanalization and revision by using an endovascular-first approach is crucial for long-term survival of hemodialysis fistula. There are several mechanisms available for catheter-based thrombus removal to unmask the typically underlying shunt stenosis.

METHODS

Primary technical recanalization success rates are very similar for clot cleaning. Treatment of intimal hyperplasia is preferably addressed by using drug-coated balloon angioplasty to allow for increased shunt patency compared to plain old balloon angioplasty. Stents and stent grafts are only used for resistant or repeated short-term recurrence of severe stenosis. Finally, surgical revision has a classical role in case of repeated failure of endovascular measures.

Scoop thrombectomy: A declotting technique for the treatment of thrombosed autologous arteriovenous fistula. A single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Thrombosis is one of the main complications leading to the failure of autologous arteriovenous fistula (AVF) for patients with renal failure. Thrombectomy is one of the major therapies to remove thrombi to salvage the AVF and prolong its patency.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-six patients with AVF thrombosis at the anastomosis were recruited for this study and underwent thrombectomy procedures. Their clinical variables were collected. The vasculature was accessed at the site of the aneurysmal dilatation. Under ultrasound guidance, a scoop thrombectomy procedure was performed by anterograde and retrograde scooping to remove the thrombus using forceps. Then, a sheath was placed in the direct vertical direction. Angioplasty was performed with a balloon to treat the underlying primary arteriovenous stenosis. Patients were followed up for 12 months after surgery. The procedural success, primary and secondary patency rates, and incidence of procedure-related complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 2 minor (3.6%) and no major complications. Clinical success was achieved in 55 of the 56 procedures (98.2%). No symptomatic pulmonary embolism or arterial embolization was noted. The primary patency rates at 3, 6, and 12 months were 92.9, 83.8, and 73.3%%, respectively, according to the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.

CONCLUSION

Scoop thrombectomy is a safe procedure with high technical success and a low complication rate, and it is an effective method for patients to receive hemodialysis immediately.

The related factors to the re-thrombosis of hemodialysis arteriovenous graft after endovascular salvage

BACKGROUND

Only a few issues of the related factors to hemodialysis access dysfunction have been evaluated, and the effects of antiplatelets to improve the patency of hemodialysis access remained controversial. Hence, this study aimed to determine the related factors to the re-thrombosis of arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) after endovascular treatment.

METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted at a university-affiliated teaching hospital in Southern Thailand. All patients who underwent hemodialysis with thrombosed AVG, who had pharmacomechanical thrombolysis from January 2016 to December 2018, were enrolled. Post-intervention primary patency was analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier method, and the related factors to the re-thrombosis of AVG were evaluated using logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 157 patients with thrombosed hemodialysis AVG were enrolled. The most common graft location and configuration was a forearm loop graft (65%). Post-intervention primary patency rate at 1, 3, and 6 months were 79.0%, 67.1%, and 54.0%, respectively. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was a significant related factor for re-thrombosis (hazard ratio [HR], 1.89; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.20-2.98; p = 0.006). A single antiplatelet after the procedure was a protective factor for re-thrombosis (HR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.38-0.89; p = 0.013). The median post-intervention primary patency was 15.7 months in the group of single antiplatelet usage, which was better than that of the non-antiplatelet group (p = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

DM and antiplatelet usage were significant related factors to the re-thrombosis of hemodialysis AVG after endovascular salvage.

Cleaner XT Rotational Thrombectomy: An Efficacious Endovascular Technique for Salvage of Thrombosed Arteriovenous Access and a 12 Month Outcome Analysis

Purpose:

This study aims to describe an efficacious method using Cleaner XT rotational thrombectomy with catheter-directed thrombolysis and drug-eluting balloon angioplasty for the salvage of thrombosed arteriovenous fistulae and grafts.

Materials and Methods:

Retrospective analysis of all patients with thrombosed hemodialysis accesses who underwent endovascular salvage using the Cleaner XT rotational thrombectomy system at a single institution between June 2019 and September 2020 was performed. Patency was presented as Kaplan-Meier survival curves, and regression analysis was performed to examine predictors of postintervention primary patency and assisted primary patency based on Cox proportional-hazards model.

Results:

Thirty-four patients with thrombosed accesses underwent Cleaner XT rotational thrombectomy between June 2019 and September 2020. Technical and clinical success were both 100%. Mean procedure time was 62 ± 20 minutes. Mean postintervention primary patency time was 152 ± 51 days; 30, 90, 180, and 365 day postintervention primary patency rates were 89%, 80%, 68%, and 56%, respectively. Mean postintervention-assisted primary patency time was 157 ± 59 days; 30, 90, 180, and 365 day postintervention-assisted primary patency rates were 91%, 82%, 71%, and 59%, and 180 and 365 day secondary patency rates were 97.2% and 94.4%, respectively.

Conclusion:

The Cleaner XT rotational thrombectomy device demonstrates excellent clinical and technical success rates, with good patency results at all time points up to 12 months postintervention.

Comparison of the Clinical Outcomes between Angiojet Pharmacomechanical Thrombectomy and Hybrid Surgical Thrombectomy for Thrombotic Occlusion of Hemodialysis Access

Purpose

This retrospective study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes between hybrid surgical thrombectomy (ST) and AngioJet pharmacomechanical thrombectomy (PMT) for thrombotic occlusion of arteriovenous graft.

Materials and Methods

This study enrolled patients who underwent either hybrid ST or AngioJet PMT in Presbyterian Medical Center from July 2018 to December 2018. We primarily compared the technical and clinical success rates between the two groups immediately after the procedures. Subsequently, the postprocedure clinical outcomes, including the primary and secondary patency rates and complications, were also compared.

Results

The hybrid ST group had a significantly higher bleeding amount than the AngioJet PMT group (P=0.02). The technical and clinical success rates were 96.7% and 93.3% in the AngioJet PMT group and 100% and 100% in the hybrid ST group, respectively. There was no significant difference in complications between the groups. The primary and secondary patencies at 12 months were not statistically different between the groups.

Conclusion

Comparable clinical outcomes were observed between the AngioJet PMT and hybrid ST groups, highlighting an equivalent efficacy of these two methods. Although the cost is more expensive, AngioJet PMT lowered the bleeding amount. Therefore, it can be considered in selected patients who are at risk of bleeding or reluctant to surgery.

A Case Report of Intravascular Hemolysis and Heme Pigment-Induced Nephropathy Following AngioJet Thrombectomy for Thrombosed DIPS Shunt

RATIONALE

The AngioJet system is a combined mechanical and pharmacological device used for thrombectomy. As a result of the mechanical disruption of clot, intravascular hemolysis is noted to occur. Rarely, intravascular hemolysis can be severe enough to cause heme pigment-induced acute kidney injury (AKI).

PRESENTING CONCERNS OF THE PATIENT

We describe a case of a 45-year-old man with Child-Pugh class B cirrhosis, Budd-Chiari syndrome, and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome who required thrombectomy following a thrombosed direct intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (DIPS). He developed evidence of worsening anemia, dark urine, direct antiglobulin test-negative intravascular hemolysis, and severe AKI within 24 hours of the procedure.

DIAGNOSIS

Based on his severe AKI in association with elevated hemolytic markers, and the temporal association with the AngioJet procedure, the patient was diagnosed with heme pigment-induced AKI secondary to intravascular hemolysis.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient remained anuric and became volume-overloaded after fluid resuscitation. He was started on dialysis 72 hours after the procedure. Five days after thrombectomy, hemolytic markers returned to normal.

OUTCOME

The patient received hemodialysis for approximately 3 weeks, followed by renal recovery and cessation of dialysis treatments. Five weeks after the AngioJet procedure, his renal function returned to normal.

TEACHING POINTS

We present a case of heme pigment-induced AKI following an AngioJet procedure that required initiation of dialysis. Although this rare complication has been reported in the literature, it typically occurs when the procedure is used for larger clot burden (ie, venous thromboembolism). To our knowledge, this is the first case of severe hemolysis with associated AKI following the use of the AngioJet for a thrombosed DIPS. Due to the patient's comorbid conditions, overlapping clinical features, and lack of appreciation of the hemolysis associated with the AngioJet system, the differential diagnosis of the patient's AKI was quite broad. Nephrologists should be aware of this complication when managing patients with AKI to direct therapy early and avoid unnecessary diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.

Comparison of pharmacomechanical and surgical interventions for thrombosed native arteriovenous fistulas

Background

This study aims to compare success and patency rates of pharmacomechanical thrombectomy versus open surgical thrombectomy for thrombosed native arteriovenous fistulas.

Methods

A total of 96 patients (56 males, 40 females; mean age 61±11.7 years; range, 26 to 82 years) with a thrombosed native arteriovenous fistula between January 2016 and December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups as pharmacomechanical thrombectomy (n=42) and open surgical thrombectomy (n=54). Primary failure rate and primary patency rate at 6 and 12 months were recorded.

Results

Of 42 patients in the pharmacomechanical thrombectomy group, 41 (98%) had additional interventions, and primary failure occurred in four patients (10%). Primary failure was seen in 15 (28%) patients in the surgical group. The primary patency rates at 6 and 12 months were significantly higher in the pharmacomechanical treatment group than the surgical group (85% vs. 67% and 78% vs. 55%, respectively; p<0.05).

Conclusion

Pharmacomechanical thrombectomy procedure yields higher primary patency rates than open surgical thrombectomy for thrombosed native arteriovenous fistula.

Comparison between endovascular versus hybrid thrombectomy for arteriovenous graft under complete ultrasound guidance

BACKGROUND

Endovascular treatment of acute thrombosed arteriovenous grafts performed completely under ultrasound guidance has rarely been reported. We compared the efficacy of a new endovascular thrombectomy technique (percutaneous manual thromboaspiration through the introducer sheath) with classical hybrid thrombectomy (minimally invasive surgical thrombectomy combined with high-pressure angioplasty) performed completely under ultrasound guidance, for arteriovenous graft thrombosis.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study involving patients receiving hemodialysis who underwent arteriovenous graft thrombectomy between January 2014 and December 2017. We divided 130 participants into an intervention (endovascular) group (N.=65) and a control (classical hybrid) group (N.=65) according to the thrombectomy technique. The procedural success rate, immediate outcomes and patency were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the procedural success rate (92.31% vs. 89.23%, P=0.55) between the intervention and control groups, respectively. No major complications were noted, but two cases of vessel rupture occurred in the control group and three cases of vessel rupture occurred in the intervention group. The procedure time in the intervention group was significantly shorter than that in the control group (74±14.21 min vs. 109.05±19.20 min, respectively; P<0.05). During the 6-month follow-up, we found no significant difference in the postintervention primary patency rate (48.33% vs. 55.17%; P=0.51) or the postintervention second patency rate (83.33% vs. 84.49%; P=0.79) between the intervention and control groups, respectively. Dialysis clearance and ≥50% stenosis were predictors of postintervention primary patency (hazard ratio, 7.80; 95% confidence interval: 1.75-34.81; P=0.01; and hazard ratio, 6.43; 95% confidence interval: 2.43-17.03; P<0.001), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Completely ultrasound-guided percutaneous manual thromboaspiration through the introducer sheath can be used for thrombosed arteriovenous grafts. This approach has the advantage of shorter operative time compared with hybrid treatment.

Outcomes after endovascular mechanical thrombectomy in occluded vascular access used for dialysis purposes

Purpose

Endovascular mechanical thrombectomy using the AngioJet™ system can be considered to reestablish patency in occluded vascular access. The aim of this study was to review our results for endovascular mechanical thrombectomy using the AngioJet™ system in patients with arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) and arteriovenous grafts (AVG).

Methods

Data collected in a database of patients requiring hemodialysis for renal failure were analyzed. Patients who underwent endovascular mechanical thrombectomy procedures with the AngioJet™ system for occlusion of vascular access were included. Clinical and technical success rates and patency rates were calculated. Multivariate analysis was used to identify factors of influence.

Results

A total of 92 AngioJet™ procedures in 60 patients with thrombosed vascular access were reviewed during a mean follow‐up period of 21.5 months in patients with an AVF and 11.9 months in patients with an AVG. Technical and clinical success was achieved in 92.6% of AVF cases and 92.0 and 90.8% of AVG cases with an AVG, respectively. Significantly higher primary and primary‐assisted patency rates were observed in the AVF group. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that left‐sided vascular access and female sex were independent predictors for failure regarding primary patency in AVG patients. Immunosuppressive drugs and older age were negative predictors for secondary patency in AVG patients.

Conclusions

The AngioJet™ system can be deemed an effective technique to reestablish patency in occluded vascular access with minimal use of central venous catheters for dialysis. Good technical and clinical success rates were achieved with acceptable patency rates, especially in AVF patients.

Factors influencing outcomes of rheolytic thrombectomy on thrombosed dialysis access grafts: Door to angiographic bed time and what else?

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the time interval from clinical presentation of arteriovenous graft thrombosis and the thrombectomy procedure by the AngioJet system in terms of technical and clinical success and to identify factors influencing success.

METHODS

A total of 60 consecutive patients (35 men and 25 women; mean age = 52 ± 7.89 years) who had undergone percutaneous thrombectomy by the AngioJet device from 2016 to 2019 were retrospectively enrolled. Demographics and fistula data, previous treatments, time from clinical onset of thrombosis to intervention, procedural details and complications were recorded. Technical and clinical success and primary and secondary patency rates were calculated. One-way analysis of variance was performed to test any correlation between patient-related and fistula/procedure-related variables and technical/clinical success. Odds ratio and relative risk were also calculated when necessary.

RESULTS

Technical success and clinical success were 95% and 91.7%, respectively. Post-interventional primary and secondary patency rates at 1 year were 72.5% and 84.3%, respectively. Complication rate was 6.7%. One-way analysis of variance showed that clinical success was higher in patients with no previous treatment (p = 0.015). Furthermore, clinical success was significantly associated with door to angiographic bed time (p = 0.002): p-value for the 24-h and the 72-h cut-off was 0.012 and 0.006, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous rheolytic thrombectomy is safe and effective for thrombosed arteriovenous grafts, with acceptable primary and secondary patency rates. Higher clinical success was found in patients never treated before and when the procedure was carried out within 24 h from the clinical onset of thrombosis.

Ultrasound-guided removal of organized thrombi using biopsy forceps in dialysis patients with arterio-venous access occlusion

INTRODUCTION

As a countermeasure against the organized thrombi frequently observed in vascular access occlusion, we devised a percutaneous excision method for organized thrombi under superficial ultrasound guidance using biopsy forceps. The Radial JawTM 3 (2 mm) biopsy forceps of Boston Scientific Corporation was used. The usefulness of this method was investigated.

METHOD

The following protocol, which is suitable for endovascular treatment, was prepared and used: (1) all procedures were performed under ultrasound guidance and (2) use of the forceps was assisted via a long sheath in cases involving a complicated bloodstream.

SUBJECTS

Among 564 cases of arterio-venous access occlusion that received treatment at this hospital between May 2014 and April 2017, the subjects of this study were 468 cases who could be followed up. Thrombectomy of an organized thrombus using the biopsy forceps was performed 194 times in 138 cases. Biopsy forceps were used in the initial treatment in a total of 115 cases, including 71 cases of acute occlusion of an autologous vein, 3 cases of chronic occlusion of an autologous vein, and 41 cases of acute occlusion of a prosthetic vessel.

RESULTS

The initial success rate for all cases of occlusion was 97.2%. The initial success rate for cases in which biopsy forceps were used was 98.2%. For cases using biopsy forceps, the primary patency rates were 47.1% at 3 months, and the secondary patency rates (until occlusion) were 89.1% at 3 months.

CONCLUSION

This method was considered to be a valuable choice as a countermeasure against organized thrombi.

Thrombosed native hemodialysis fistulas: Technical and clinical outcomes of endovascular recanalization and factors influencing patency

Purpose:

To evaluate the technical and clinical results of endovascular recanalization of thrombosed native hemodialysis fistula and the factors influencing patency.

Methods:

A retrospective study was conducted with 73 patients who had thrombosed arteriovenous fistulas and were treated with endovascular methods. Patient characteristics, arteriovenous fistula-related characteristics, and endovascular procedures were analyzed. Technical and clinical results and patency rates were evaluated. The factors influencing patency were analyzed using a univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards model.

Results:

Technical and clinical success rates were 93% (68/73) and 85% (62/73), respectively. At 3, 6, and 12 months, the primary patency rates were 87.9%, 73.3%, and 64.8%; assisted primary patency rates were 89.2%, 78.6%, and 70.7%; and secondary patency rates were 90.8%, 87.2%, and 83.1%, respectively. Previous intervention and cephalic arch stenosis were risk factors for lower primary and assisted primary patency ( p < 0.05 for all). Cephalic arch stenosis was the only risk factor for lower secondary patency ( p < 0.05). No major complications associated with the procedures were noticed.

Conclusion:

Endovascular treatment was effective for the immediate recanalization of thrombosed arteriovenous fistula. In addition, previous intervention and cephalic arch stenosis were significantly related to lower arteriovenous fistula patency.