Iliac Vein Stenting for Chronic Proximal Venous Outflow Obstruction in a Predominantly Asian-American Cohort

Abstract

Chronic proximal venous outflow obstruction (PVOO) presentation, treatment needs, and outcomes differ in Asian Americans compared with non-Asian patients. Study Summary: This was a large (N = 462) study of consecutive patients with PVOO that included 336 (73%) Asian Americans treated in a 3-year time span with a 90% follow-up during 695 days. Asian Americans were more likely to present with varicose veins rather than with ulceration and to have bilateral iliac venous stent placement and less likely to have had a deep venous thrombosis and any reinterventions. Follow-up outcome scores were worse at 30-days but improved at 1 year compared with non-Asians. This observational study of Asian Americans' presentation and response to treatment for PVOO is important, showing the effects of chronic venous insufficiency in a population. The literature has shown ethnic differences in the incidence and prevalence of venous thromboembolism in Asians, but this is the first study of which I am aware looking at iliac venous disease and interventions. More epidemiologic data are needed to understand interethnic disparities and possibly the relative roles of genetic and environmental factors.