Venous endoscopy in thrombectomy of the iliac veins using the choledochoscope

In the present communication venoscopy using a flexible choledochoscope is advocated after thrombectomy of the iliac veins. In 10 patients operated upon for occlusive thrombi in the pelvic veins, venoscopy was used to assess the status of the vein. The procedure was conveniently performed using a regular flexible choledochoscope. Venoscopy gave detailed information of the veins and lead to altered therapy in seven of the 10 patients. Venoscopy is recommended for intra-operative control during surgical thrombectomy and the use of a choledochoscope can simplify this procedure.