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Vacuum-assisted thrombectomy device (AngioVac) in the management of symptomatic iliocaval thrombosis
Steven J Smith1, George Behrens1, Luke E Sewall1
1VIR Chicago, 911 Elm Street, Suite 327, Hinsdale, IL 60521.
Insights
Standard treatments failed for three patients with iliocaval thrombosis. The AngioVac Cannula and bypass circuit successfully treated their venous occlusions, relieving leg swelling and improving symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Interventional Radiology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Iliocaval thrombosis presents a significant challenge, often causing severe leg swelling and symptoms.
- Standard pharmacomechanical treatments may not be effective for complete iliocaval occlusions.
Observation:
- Three patients with complete iliocaval thrombosis experienced treatment failure with conventional methods.
- These patients subsequently underwent treatment using the AngioVac Cannula with an extracorporeal venous bypass circuit.
Findings:
- The AngioVac Cannula effectively cleared the occluded inferior vena cava and iliac veins in all three patients.
- All patients demonstrated symptomatic improvement, including reduced leg swelling, following the AngioVac procedure.
Implications:
- The AngioVac device offers a potential alternative for managing complex iliocaval venous thrombosis.
- Further investigation into the benefits and techniques associated with AngioVac for venous thrombosis is warranted.
Abstract:
Three patients with complete iliocaval thrombosis causing symptomatic leg swelling failed initial treatment with standard pharmacomechanical techniques. The occluded segments of the inferior vena cava and iliac veins were subsequently treated with the AngioVac Cannula (AngioDynamics, Latham, New York) and extracorporeal venous bypass circuit. In each patient, symptoms improved after treatment. This report discusses potential benefits and ancillary techniques of using the AngioVac device for iliocaval venous thrombosis.
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