Review of Sharp Recanalization Techniques in Central Venous Occlusions

Benign central venous occlusions are frequently associated with long-term central venous access. Most of these occlusions can be recanalized with conventional endovascular technique. When conventional technique fails, sharp recanalization techniques (SRTs) can increase technical success. The SRTs include single low-profile needles, needle coaxial systems, re-entry catheter, the back end of stiff guidewires, and systems that can deliver radiofrequency energy or laser. This review on SRTs presents technical details and outcomes of the most common techniques used in central venous recanalization.