Deep Dive Rendezvous as a Novel Alternative Technique for Conventional Externalization in Retrograde Chronic Total
Mihajlo Kovacic1, Gregor Leibundgut2, Mihai Cocoi3
1Interventional Cardiology Department, County Hospital Cakovec, Cakovec, Croatia.
The American Journal of Cardiology
|October 18, 2025
Summary
The Deep Dive Rendezvous (DDR) technique offers a safer, simpler alternative for complex Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (CTO-PCI) procedures. This innovative approach enhances guidewire support, reducing complications and equipment needs during retrograde interventions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Vascular Interventions
Background:
- The retrograde approach is crucial for Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (CTO-PCI) when antegrade techniques fail.
- Conventional externalization methods in retrograde CTO-PCI present challenges like complexity, high equipment needs, and collateral vessel rupture risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and detail the Deep Dive Rendezvous (DDR) technique as a novel solution for retrograde CTO-PCI externalization.
- To present DDR as an improvement over conventional externalization, aiming to simplify procedures and enhance safety.
Main Methods:
- The study details the Deep Dive Rendezvous (DDR) technique, an advancement of existing rendezvous approaches.
- DDR involves deep intubation into the retrograde system for enhanced guidewire support during CTO-PCI.
Main Results:
- The DDR technique provides enhanced guidewire support within the retrograde system.
- It aims to streamline the externalization process, potentially reducing procedural complexity and equipment requirements.
- The technique is designed to minimize risks associated with collateral vessel rupture.
Conclusions:
- Deep Dive Rendezvous (DDR) offers a streamlined and effective alternative to conventional externalization in retrograde CTO-PCI.
- This technique can reduce procedural complications and preserve collateral vessel integrity.
- DDR is versatile, serving as both a primary strategy and a bailout option for challenging CTO-PCI cases.


