Iliac Stent Research Articles

An Overview of Specific Considerations in Chronic Venous Disease and Iliofemoral Venous Stenting.

Unlike arterial disease, chronic venous disease (CVD) is rarely life-threatening or limb-threatening. However, it can impose substantial morbidity on patients by influencing their lifestyle and quality of life (QoL). The aim of this nonsystematic narrative review is to provide an overview of the most recent information on the management of CVD and specifically, iliofemoral venous stenting in the context of personalized considerations for specific patient populations. The philosophy of treating CVD and phases of endovenous iliac stenting are also described in this review. Additionally, the use of intravascular ultrasound is described as the preferred operative diagnostic procedural tool for iliofemoral venous stent placement.

Gender Differences in Iliofemoral Vein Stenting for Chronic Venous Insufficiency.

Little is known about gender's role in chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of gender on outcomes of iliac vein stenting(IVS) for CVI. 866 patients who underwent vein stenting for CVI at one institution from August 2011 to June 2021 were analyzed via retrospective review. Patients were followed up to 5years after initial stent placement. Presenting symptoms were quantified using Venous Clinical Severity Score(VCSS), Clinical Assessment Score(CAS), and Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, and Pathophysiology (CEAP) class. Reoperations after initial IVS were recorded. Major reoperations were defined as iliac interventions using venography. Minor reoperations were defined as thermal ablation. Multivariate logistic regression models were used determine odds of any and major reintervention. Compared to females, males pre-operatively presented with a higher mean CEAP class (3.6 vs .3.3; P < .001), VCSS composite (11.3 vs .9.9; P < .001), and smoking history (134 vs .49; P < .001). The 2 groups were similar in age (P = .125), BMI(P = .898), previous DVT (P = .085), diabetes (P = .386), hypertension (P = 1.0), and CAD (P = .499). Multivariate analyses revealed no association between gender and any reintervention (OR, 1.02; 95%CI, .71-1.46; P = .935) or gender and major reintervention (OR, 1.39; 95% CI, .86-2.23 P = .177). There were no differences in number of stents placed (P = .736) or symptomatic improvement at 1month (P = .951), 3months (P = .233), 6months(P = .068), and greater than 1year (P = .287). At the 1year follow-up, the male cohort had higher CAS values than females P = .034). Males had larger reduction in composite VCSS than women at 1year (5.1 vs. 3.8; P = .003) and 3years (5.3 vs .3.7; P = .031) of follow-up and similar levels of improvement in post-op (4.0 vs .3.5; P = .059), 2years (4.3 vs .3.8; P = .295), 4-years (5.1 vs .4.6; P = .529), 5years (5.6 vs .4.2; P = .174), and 6years (5.93vs.3.3 P = .089). In a single site study of IVS in patients with CVI, males tended to present worse symptoms than females. After surgery, however, both cohorts showed improvement, and both seemed to improve to the same degree of residual symptoms.

Predictive Factors of Stent Patency in Iliofemoral Venous Diseases in a Multicentre Cohort Study

To assess predictive factors of primary stent patency in three groups of patients with history of lower limb (LL) vein thrombosis: non-thrombotic iliac vein lesion (NIVL), acute deep vein thrombosis (aDVT) and post thrombotic syndrome (PTS). Consecutive patients with history of LL vein stenting from 7 hospitals were included from January 2014 to December 2020. All patients received an iliac or common femoral venous stent and had at least a 6-month follow-up available with stent imaging. The anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy strategies employed after venous stenting are reported and compared between groups. This study included 377 patients: 134 NIVL, 55 aDVT and 188 PTS. Primary patency was significantly higher in the NIVL group (99.3%) compared to the PTS group (68.6%) (p <.001) and the aDVT group (83.6%) (p=.002). PTS patients received a significantly greater number of stents (p<.001) and had more stents below the inguinal ligament (p<.001). Median follow-up was 28.8 months [IQR: 16; 47]. Discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy at the last assessment was 83.6% for NIVL, 100% for aDVT and 95.7% for the PTS group (p<.001). Discontinuation of anticoagulation therapy at the last assessment was 93.2% for NIVL, 25.0% for aDVT and 70.3% for the PTS group (p<.001). The only predictor of worse primary patency in the aDVT group was long-term anticoagulation before stenting. Patients with NIVL have better primary patency after venous stenting than patients with venous thrombotic disorders. Long-term anticoagulation before stenting was the only factor associated with poorer primary patency in patient with aDVT.

Iliac vein recanalisation and stenting accelerate healing of venous leg ulcers associated with severe venous outflow obstruction.

Obstruction involving the iliac veins and/or inferior vena cava is highly comorbid in patients with chronic venous leg ulcers and is a barrier to healing. Intervention with venous stenting is recommended to promote wound healing; however, there is limited data to quantify the effects of venous outflow restoration on wound healing. We retrospectively identified patients with venous ulcers and comorbid venous outflow obstruction. Data regarding demographics, wound size, degree of obstruction, interventions, wound healing and recurrence were collected. Intervention was performed when possible and patients were grouped based on whether or not the venous outflow was reopened successfully and maintained for at least 1 year. Outcomes, including time to wound healing, wound recurrence, stent patency and ulcer-free time, were measured. Patients who maintained a patent venous outflow tract experienced higher rates of wound healing (79.3%) compared to those with persistent outflow obstruction (22.6%) at 12 months (p < 0.001). Ulcer-free time for the first year was also greater with patent venous outflow (7.6 ± 4.4months versus 1.8 ± 3.0months, p < 0.0025). Patients with severe obstruction of the venous outflow tract experience poor healing of VLUs despite appropriate wound care. Healing time is improved and ulcer-free time increased after venous intervention with stenting to eliminate obstruction.

Iliac vein stent failure in community practice and results of corrective reinterventions

ObjectiveThe goal of endovenous stenting is to relieve venous obstruction and reduce peripheral venous hypertension by using large caliber venous stents in the presence of adequate venous inflow and outflow for the stented conduit. The aim of this report is to describe the technical reasons and outcomes for reinterventions in a subset of patients who had a history of iliac vein stenting and were now referred to us at a specialty venous clinic for further care. MethodsFrom January 2016 to December 2021, records of all patients who were referred to us with a history of iliac vein stenting performed at an outside facility and who had a reoperation performed at our center were retrospectively analyzed. ResultsA total of 149 limbs underwent a deep venous reintervention after a failure of a trial of conservative therapy. The mean age of the sample was 57 ± 16 years. The ratio of non-thrombotic iliac vein lesions to post-thrombotic lesions was 1:2.5. The majority of the patients (84%) were CEAP class C4 or higher. The most common reason for reintervention was stent occlusion (74%), followed by iatrogenic stenosis (53%) and in-stent restenosis/shelving (38%). There was a trend for improvement in all clinical parameters (venous clinical severity score, visual analog scale for pain, and edema grade) after the reintervention. Poor inflow was present in 70% of limbs with stent occlusion. The median diameters of stented common femoral vein, external iliac vein, and common iliac vein prior to reintervention were 12, 12, and 13 mm, respectively. The median diameters of stented common femoral vein, external iliac vein, and common iliac vein after reintervention were 14, 15, and 16 mm, respectively. Eighty-eight percent of limbs required at least one further reintervention after initial reoperation. ConclusionsVenous reoperations are generally infrequent and required in a small number of patients. Poor inflow appeared to be a common cause of stent occlusion. Iatrogenic stenosis is another common reason for venous reoperation and is difficult to fully rectify through current endovascular techniques and tools. Use of intravascular ultrasound planimetry routinely in every deep venous intervention and thorough knowledge of the principles of venous stenting outlined in this report may help forestall the need for reoperative deep venous surgery in some cases.

Surgical Treatment of Small Intestinal Bleeding Caused by Arterial Gastrointestinal Fistula: A 2-Case Report

Background: This study aims to better understand diagnosing and treating arterial gastrointestinal fistulas. Methods: The diagnosis and treatment of two patients with arterial gastrointestinal fistulas were reported, and the experience with diagnosis and treatment was summarized. Results: In these two cases, both patients were admitted with bleeding as the primary complaint, both underwent emergency laparotomies, and both patients were diagnosed with small intestinal bleeding before surgery. the first patient died as a result of an abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture caused by chronic vascular repair and postoperative implant infection; the second patient underwent vascular repair on time, we treated him with third-generation cephalosporin, and after he was stabilized, we performed left total iliac stent placement and left internal iliac artery embolization; he had no fever after surgery, his incision was healed, and he was successfully discharged from the hospital. Conclusion: Aortic gastrointestinal fistula is rare and has a high mortality rate, attention should be paid to distinguishing it from small intestinal bleeding. Timely diagnosis and rapid surgical treatment are keys to improving survival.

DIAGNOSTIC REFERENCE LEVELS AND COMPLEXITY INDICES IN INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY.

The establishment of typical diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) values according to the complexity indices (CIs) for hepatic chemoembolisation (HC), iliac stent placement (ISP) and femoropopliteal revascularisation (FR) is reported in this study. To estimate patients' stochastic effects, effective dose was calculated through dose area product (DAP) values of this study and E/DAP conversion factors derived from the literature. Data for DAP, Reference Air Kerma (Ka,r) and fluoroscopy time (FT) were collected for 218 patients and CIs were assigned to each procedure to extract DRLs. To estimate effective dose, conversion factors and DAP values were used for seven IR procedures. DRL values for DAP were 141, 130 and 28Gy*cm2 for HC, ISP, and FR, respectively. The corresponding DRL values for Ka,r were 634.6, 300.1 and 112.0mGy, and for FT were 15.3, 12.4 and 17.9min, respectively. CIs in interventional radiology are a useful tool for the optimisation of DRLs since they contribute to patient's doses.

Risk factors for stent occlusion after catheter-directed thrombolysis and iliac vein stenting in the treatment of May-Thurner syndrome with iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis: a retrospective cohort study.

This study aimed to identify the risk factors for stent occlusion in patients with iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis (DVT) secondary to May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) who underwent catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) and iliac vein stenting. A retrospective analysis was performed on 44 patients who underwent CDT and iliac vein stenting for MTS with iliofemoral DVT between October 2001 and March 2018. MTS was diagnosed based on extrinsic compression of the left common iliac vein (CIV) by the overlying right common iliac artery (CIA) on computed tomography (CT). Clinical records of the study population were reviewed to collect baseline data, procedural characteristics, and outcomes. Final venograms showing diffuse and irregular wall thickening in the iliofemoral vein were considered to indicate a chronic post-thrombotic lesion. The stent position was categorized as follows: confluence coverage without touching the contralateral inferior vena cava (IVC) wall, IVC extension contacting the contralateral IVC wall, or distal to the iliocaval junction. Stent patency was assessed using duplex ultrasonography. Risk factors for stent occlusion were assessed using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models. The median duplex ultrasound follow-up period was 25 months (range, 1-196 months). The overall cumulative patency rate at 12 months was 70.0%. In the univariate Cox regression, factors significantly associated with stent occlusion included symptom duration >2 weeks before CDT, partial thrombolysis (50-99% of thrombus removal), chronic post-thrombotic lesions, and stent position. Multivariate Cox regression showed that chronic post-thrombotic lesions [hazard ratio (HR) =7.15; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.32-38.81; P=0.023] and a stent distal to the iliocaval junction (HR =5.59; 95% CI: 1.46-21.38; P=0.012) were significantly associated with stent occlusion. Chronic post-thrombotic lesion and a stent distal to the iliocaval junction were important risk factors for stent occlusion in patients who underwent CDT and iliac vein stenting.

Nitinol stents placed in iliac veins are not associated with prolonged back pain.

Endovascular stenting is the standard of care for the management of symptomatic chronic venous obstruction. The increased radial resistive force and longer lengths of Nitinol stents have led to questions over persistent post-operative back pain. The purpose of this investigation was to assess the incidence and severity of post-operative back pain of Nitinol stents compared to Wallstents. A retrospective review of data at the Center for Vascular Medicine was performed. Patient demographics, pre-operative, oneweek, three-, six,- and 12month visual analog pain scores (VAS) for back pain, stent type, diameter, length, and vein locations were assessed. From April 2014 to November 2021, 627 (412 women/215 men) patients were assessed for the presence of post-operative back pain after an initial iliac vein stent placement. Stents utilized were Wallstents (n = 114), Venovo (n = 342), and Abre (n = 171). The most common Nitinol stent diameter and lengths were 14mm, 16mm, and 120mm, respectively (p ≤ .03). The incidence of back pain at oneweek was 66% (411/627). VAS scores at oneweek and one, three, and sixmonths post-operatively were the following: Wallstents-2.6 ± 3 (n = 66), 1.7 ± 2.6 (n = 43) 0.7 ± 2 (n = 51), and 0 ± 0 (n = 27); Abre-3.5 ± 3 (n = 130), 3.8 ± 3 (n = 19), 1.2 ± 2.5 (n = 12), and 1 ± 2 (n = 5); and Venovo- 2.5 ± 3 (n = 216), 2.4 ± 3 (n = 70), 0.9 ± 2 (n = 68), and 0.6 ± 1.7 (n = 49). There was no difference in the severity of back pain at any time point (p ≥ .99). The development of back pain was unrelated to stent type, diameter, length, or covered vein territory. Post-operative back pain was observed in 66% of patients at oneweek. The average pain score at oneweek for the entire cohort was three, which declined to less than one at onemonth. No difference in the severity of back pain between groups was observed at any time point, and the development of back pain is unrelated to stent type, diameter, length, or covered vein territory.

Race differences in iliofemoral vein stenting for chronic venous insufficiency.

Major disparities in outcomes by race are present throughout vascular surgery, yet little has been published on iliac vein stent outcomes by race. This retrospective study assessed iliac vein stent outcomes by patient race. Patients who underwent iliac vein stenting at a single institution for chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) from 2011 to 2021 were reviewed. Demographic, preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative data were collected. Self-reported race groups included Asian, Black, Hispanic, and White. Univariate differences were analyzed using χ2 tests for categorical variables and 1-way ANOVA for continuous variables. Outcomes included change in Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) at interval timepoints relative to a preoperative baseline and reinterventions. Logistic regression models were used to determine the unadjusted and adjusted odds ratio (OR) of any minor and major reintervention. Multivariate regression models controlled for demographic and comorbidity characteristics. A total of 827 patients were included. Asian patients were younger and had a greater proportion of male patients, lower Body mass index (BMI), less smoking history, and fewer comorbidities. White patients were more likely to have a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). White patients presented with the most severe CVI symptoms as defined by both Clinical-Etiological-Anatomical-Pathophysiological (CEAP) classification and preoperative VCSS composite scores. There were no differences in acute DVT, number of stents deployed, and bilateral versus unilateral stent placement. Black patients had the longest average days of follow-up, followed sequentially by Hispanic, White, and Asian. Black patients had the most reinterventions, while Asian patients had the fewest. Asian patients were less likely to have a major reintervention. No differences in VCSS composite or change in VCSS were observed. In patients with CVI, Asian patients presented younger and healthier, while White patients presented with the most severe symptoms. No differences were observed in VCSS outcomes, though Black patients had the most reinterventions.

Can the Fenestrated Anaconda™ salvage failed competitor endografts? An international frame of reference.

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening abnormal dilation of the abdominal aorta that can be repaired either endovascularly or with open surgery. However, endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) has become the main treatment modality for AAA due to its more optimal results. EVAR devices can either be standard, fenestrated, or branched, with fenestrated EVAR (FEVAR) seemingly achieving superior prospects. Although EVAR is associated with excellent outcomes, it still carries a risk of certain complications requiring reintervention or 'rescue'. Several commercial EVAR devices are available on the global market, nevertheless, the Fenestrated Anaconda developed by Terumo Aortic can be considered the superior device due to the wide range of endovascular solutions that it offers along with its unique custom-made approach, excellent results and its highly promising potential to be used as a 'rescue' device for failed competitor endografts. The current study represents a 9-year cross-sectional international analysis of a custom-made Fenestrated Anaconda™ device. For the statistical analysis, SPSS 28 for Windows and R were utilised. Pearson Chi-square analysis was used to assess differences in cumulative distribution frequencies between select variables. Statistical significance for all two-tailed tests was set at p < 0.05. Out of 5058 EVARs performed using the Fenestrated Anaconda, 2987 (59%) were 'rescue' procedures for migrated Gore (n = 252) and Medtronic (n = 2735) devices. The Fenestrated Anaconda™ was indicated as the reintervention device either due to unsuitable/complex anatomy for the competitor (n = 2411) or based on surgeon preference (n = 576). Overall, the Fenestrated Anaconda was utilised to rescue 3466 (68.5%) failed previous EVARs using competitor devices. Yet, the primary endovascular solution offered by the Fenestrated Anaconda was FEVAR (91.3%), with 112 (2.2%) devices using custom-made iliac stents. The use of the Fenestrated Anaconda endograft as a 'rescue' device to salvage failed competitor devices is well-established in the literature with excellent clinical outcomes achieved. The evidence in the literature also highlights the distinctive custom-made approach that the Fenestrated Anaconda offers which enables it to treat extremely complex aortic anatomy.

Abstract 12175: A Migrated External Iliac Stent - To Retrieve or Not to Retrieve

Endovascular venous stenting has become a more favorable intervention for occlusive, symptomatic deep vein thromboses (DVTs), especially given its decreased complication rate and shorter recovery time than its predecessor, open venous bypass. Risks, however, still exist and can include stent fragmentation and dislodgement causing cardiopulmonary complications. A 57-year-old man with bilateral lower extremity DVTs status post left external ilio-femoral stent and inferior vena cava (IVC) filter placement presented with one month of atypical chest discomfort. CT chest showed migration of his 40cm iliac stent to the IVC and right atrium. Interventional radiology visualized both a patent stent and IVC, however, attempted endovascular removal from the distal margin failed with initial retrieval of fragments only. Other fragments subsequently embolized to the pulmonary and lower lobe arteries and right ventricles. Extraction of more distal fragments was deferred due to risks of structural damage, arrhythmias, and pulmonary vasculature perforation. Fragment analysis by pathology demonstrated evidence of clot, yet cardiothoracic surgical intervention was deferred.The patient continued to experience chest pain and underwent a repeat CT chest three months later that demonstrated the stent extending from the right atrial junction to the infrahepatic IVC. Fragmented portions of the filter in the right ventricle and multiple stent fragments retained in the right upper and bilateral lower pulmonary lobes remained as prior with no evidence of pulmonary embolism (PE), pericardial effusion, or tamponade. Although rare, stent removal complications can occur with increased risk of long-term sequelae. Stent fracturing and dislodgement can result in foreign bodies showering the pulmonary vasculature and cardiac chambers, ultimately placing patients at risk for arterial perforation or dissection, pulmonary hemorrhage, intracardiac damage, tamponade, PE, and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). The consideration of such risks, in addition to early involvement of interdisciplinary teams and thorough risk-benefit discussions between patients and providers are essential when undergoing stent removal and related interventions.

P02] Inferior Vena Cava Reconstruction: A Single Centre Experience

<h3>Objective</h3> Inferior vena cava (IVC) stenting is carried out for symptomatic chronic IVC stenosis or occlusion, and for the treatment of malignant IVC obstruction. The patency of IVC stents placed for both acute on chronic and chronic venous occlusion was determined. <h3>Methods</h3> Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was completed on all patients who underwent technically successful IVC stenting for treatment of symptomatic venous outflow obstruction or stenosis between February 2015 and November 2021. All patients had standard pre-operative work up, including venography ± intravascular ultrasound for chronic cases, and followed standard anticoagulation and surveillance programmes post-procedure, unless there was malignant disease. <h3>Results</h3> Sixteen patients underwent IVC stenting. Seven cases (43%) presented acutely with deep vein thrombosis and chronic underlying IVC stenosis or occlusion. Five cases (31%) were for symptomatic malignant external IVC compression. In four cases (25%), kissing iliac stents were placed into the IVC to treat infrarenal IVC disease. The remainder required single stents in the IVC, or were combined with double barrelled iliac stents. Re-intervention occurred in four cases (25%) for in stent thrombosis. Primary patency was 75%, and primary assisted patency was 88%. Stenting the IVC in all cases for malignant obstruction gave symptomatic relief. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Stenting of the occluded/atretic IVC may require additional access from the right internal jugular vein. Stenting above and across the renal veins did not cause any additional complications in this series. Stenting of the IVC is safe, and can give significant improvement in symptoms in patients with limited alternative options for treatment.

Subclavian angioplasty during coronary interventions using radial approach.

In the past years, the percentage of percutaneous coronary angiography and coronary interventions using radial access had significantly increased due to its higher safety, lower risk of major bleeding, and hence lower cardiovascular mortality. Subclavian artery stenosis is one of the challenges that may be met during transradial coronary interventions, which may necessitate femoral access crossover or conversion. To evaluate the feasibility and safety of performing subclavian angioplasty via radial access during complex coronary interventions using the forearm approach. A series of patients with complex radial approach due to subclavian stenosis received subclavian angioplasty during the procedure. We included 48 patients out of 22 500 procedures performed from February 2009 to February 2020. All patients did not have alternative vascular access due to extensive peripheral arterial disease (previous history of iliac stenting or distal aortic occlusion, which makes femoral access crossover difficult; also the contralateral radial/ulnar artery was very faint or not detectable at all). Mean age was 72 (10) years and 67% of patients were males. Subclavian angioplasty was successfully done in all patients via ipsilateral radial access; 44 patients (91.7%) required subclavian stenting, and 4 patients were treated by subclavian angioplasty without stenting. Coronary angiography or intervention was perfectly achieved through the revascularized subclavian artery; coronary stenting was successfully done in 36 patients as indicated. It can be concluded that percutaneous subclavian artery angioplasty can be done safely and effectively to facilitate complex transradial coronary procedures with an acceptable immediate technical success, especially in patients without alternative vascular access. Also, we may conclude that subclavian angioplasty may be successfully performed in patients with symptomatic upper limb ischemia, via the radial approach.

External iliac vein dimensions can change after placement of a more proximal iliac vein stent

ObjectiveWe have occasionally observed during vein stenting for proximal iliac vein stenosis, the appearance of a more distal stenosis in the iliac vein that had not been initially observed before placement of the more proximal vein stent. In the present retrospective study, we aimed to document this observation. MethodsWe identified patients in whom changes in the area measurement and linear dimensions of the external iliac vein (EIV) were observed on venography and/or intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) after stent placement for chronic nonthrombotic iliac stenosis in the common iliac vein (CIV). The images of these IVUS scans were subsequently analyzed to determine the cross-sectional area, major axis, and minor axis measurements in the EIV, before and after placement of a proximal CIV stent. ResultsA total of 32 limbs with complete and quality IVUS and venography images available that allowed for measurement of the EIV before and after vein stent placement in the CIV were evaluated. The patient cohort was 55% men, with a mean age of 63.8 ± 9.9 years and a mean body mass index of 27.8 ± 7.8 kg/m2. Of the 32 limbs, 18 were left sided and 14 were right sided. Most (n = 12 [60%]) of the limbs had presented with venous-related skin changes (C4 disease). The remainder of the cohort had had active (C6 disease; n = 4 [20%]) or recently healed (C5 disease; n = 1 [5%]) venous ulceration and isolated venous-related edema (C3; n = 3 [15%]). The minimal CIV area before and after CIV stenting was 28.47 ± 23.53 mm2 and 196.34 ± 42.62 mm2, respectively. The minimal mean EIV cross-sectional area before and after CIV stenting was 87.44 ± 38.55 mm2 and 50.69 ± 24.32 mm2, respectively, a statistically significant reduction of 36.75 mm2 (P < .001). The mean EIV major axis and minor axis had both decreased similarly. The minimal mean EIV major axis before and after CIV stenting was 15.22 ± 3.13 mm and 11.13 ± 3.58 mm, respectively (P < .001). The minimal mean EIV minor axis before and after CIV stenting was 7.26 ± 2.40 mm and 5.84 ± 1.42 mm, respectively (P < .001). ConclusionsThe results from the present study have shown that the dimensions of the EIV can change significantly after placement of a proximal CIV stent. Possible explanations include masked stenosis due to distal venous distention resulting from the more proximal stenosis, vascular spasm, and anisotropy. The presence of proximal CIV stenosis can potentially lessen the appearance, or completely mask the presence, of an EIV stenosis. This phenomenon appears unique to venous stenting, and the prevalence is unknown. These findings underscore the importance of completion IVUS and venography after venous stent placement.

Medical center reimbursement for vascular procedures has increased over time while professional reimbursement has declined

ObjectiveThe United States healthcare system uses different methods for assigning medical center reimbursement (MCR) and professional reimbursement (PR) for clinical services. We hypothesized that PR has not increased proportionately to MCR for the same vascular services. MethodsMCR and PR were compared for commonly performed inpatient and outpatient vascular procedures between 2012 and 2021. MCR was calculated using the Medicare inpatient prospective payment system and outpatient prospective payment system. MCR is based on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services definition and criteria for comorbidities and the occurrence of complications; thus, changes in MCR were reported as a range based on the degree of comorbidities and complications using the Diagnosis Related Group. PR was calculated using the Medicare physician fee schedule, which assigns a numerical work relative value unit to each surgical service, with final compensation determined by an annually adjusted conversion factor to yield a final dollar amount. The expected reimbursement based on the observed inflation during the study period using the consumer price index was calculated and compared to the actual reimbursement. ResultsFrom 2012 to 2021, MCR for inpatient procedures increased 20% to 26% for carotid endarterectomy, 24% to 27% for femoral endarterectomy, 24% to 27% for femoropopliteal bypass with vein, 14% to 19% for thoracic endovascular aortic repair, and 15% for aortobifemoral bypass. During the same period, PR increased 3.3% for carotid endarterectomy but decreased for femoral endarterectomy (−5.0%), femoropopliteal bypass (−4.6%), thoracic endovascular aortic repair (−4.2%), and aortobifemoral bypass (−5.0%). Comparing the expected reimbursement, adjusted for inflation, to the actual reimbursement, PR experienced a 10% to 17% reduction but MCR outpaced inflation by 3.7% to 10%. For outpatient procedures, MCR increased 117% for tibial angioplasty, 24% for superficial femoral artery (SFA) stenting, 62% for tunneled dialysis catheter (TDC) insertion, and 24% for iliac stenting but decreased 0.43% for arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation and 7.6% for radiofrequency ablation (RFA). PR increased 0.91% for SFA stenting but decreased for tibial angioplasty (−17%), AVF creation (−6.4%), TDC insertion (−7.1%), iliac stenting (−3.8%), and RFA (−22%). Comparing the expected reimbursement, adjusted for inflation, to the actual reimbursement, PR experienced a 13% to 32% reduction. In contrast, MCR outpaced inflation 7.5% to 88% for tibial angioplasty, SFA stenting, TDC insertion, and iliac stenting but experienced a reduction for AVF (−13%) and RFA (−19%). ConclusionsMCR for commonly performed vascular procedures has increased and outpaced inflation. In contrast, PR for these same services has decreased across all procedure types. This decrease in PR was exacerbated when adjusted for inflation. This inequity in the reimbursement methods between MCR and PR poses a threat to the viability of the physician workforce. Either changes to the reimbursement methods or a reallocation of reimbursement to physicians are imperative to sustain physician practices.

Effect of perioperative intravenous magnesium sulfate on postoperative pain after iliac venous stenting

BackgroundThe aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of perioperative intravenous (IV) magnesium sulfate (MS) on low back pain (LBP) severity after iliac venous stent implantation. MethodsThe present study was a single-center retrospective study. A total of 97 patients who had undergone iliac venous stenting for post-thrombotic syndrome between January 1, 2019 and January 11, 2021 were considered for inclusion in the present study. The patients were divided into two groups: those who had received perioperative MS infusions (group M) and those who had not (control group; group C). Group M was given an IV bolus of 20 mg/kg before anesthesia induction and an IV MS infusion of 20 mg/kg/h during the procedure. Postoperative LBP severity was evaluated using the numerical rating scale at 1, 6, 12, and 24 hours after the procedure. The total tramadol consumption within 24 hours was measured with the help of a patient-controlled analgesia device. Moreover, additional analgesic needs and complaints of nausea and vomiting were evaluated. ResultsA total of 97 patients were considered for inclusion in the present study. Of the 97 patients, 29 were excluded because of a lack of follow-up data, leaving 68 patients for the final analysis (group M, n = 36; group C, n = 32). The demographic data, body mass index, sedation time, procedure time, and stented side data were similar between the two groups (P > .05). The rates of atropine and ephedrine use during the procedure were similar between the two groups (P > .05). The numerical rating scale scores were significantly lower for group M at all follow-up periods (P < .001). The total tramadol consumption at 24 hours postoperatively was 191.94 ± 68.194 mg for group M and 378.75 ± 31.367 mg for group C (P < .001). Additional analgesics were used by 8 patients (22.2%) in group M and 17 patients (53.1%) in group C. Additional analgesic needs were significantly lower for group M (P = .008). Nausea and vomiting were observed in six (19.4%) and four (11.1%) patients in group M and eight (32%) and five (15.6%) patients in group C, respectively (P > .05). ConclusionsFor patients undergoing iliac venous stenting, perioperative MS infusion was an effective and safe treatment option that reduced LBP severity, opioid consumption, and the need for additional analgesics in the acute postoperative period.

Clinical tolerance of untreated reflux after iliac vein stent placement

BackgroundWe have recently demonstrated in a large patient cohort that the prevalence and severity of reflux will improve in most limbs after stenting and that most limbs will not develop new-onset reflux. In the present report, we have focused on the long-term clinical outcomes associated with untreated reflux in the same patient cohort who had undergone iliofemoral venous stenting without correction of residual reflux. MethodsThe clinical outcomes data from 1379 limbs treated with only iliac vein stenting without correction of superficial or deep reflux from 1997 to 2018 were analyzed (23-year follow-up period). Of the 1379 limbs, 632 (46%) had had preexisting reflux before stenting and 747 (54%) had did not. The reflux data (reflux segmental score, air plethysmography, ambulatory venous pressure) for these patients have been previously reported in detail. The subsets were compared perioperatively with each other using the following variables: grade of swelling, visual analog scale for pain score, venous clinical severity score, venous stasis dermatitis, ulceration, and quality of life measures. ResultsBoth groups demonstrated improvements in the venous clinical severity score, grade of swelling, visual analog scale score, and quality of life. No differences were found in ulcer healing (5% vs 3% for limbs with and without prestent reflux, respectively) and resolution of dermatitis (6% vs 5% for limbs with and without prestent reflux, respectively) between the two groups. Of the 632 limbs with preexisting reflux, 218 (34%) had had axial reflux and 414 had had nonaxial reflux (66%). The clinical outcomes were similar between the two groups. Using a multisegment reflux score, the limbs with prestent reflux (n = 632) were divided into two groups. A segmental score of ≥3 indicated severe reflux and a score of <3 indicated moderate reflux. Of these 632 limbs, 161 (25%) had severe reflux and 471 (75%) had moderate reflux. The two groups demonstrated similar outcomes for most clinical parameters. The post-thrombotic limbs and nonthrombotic limbs also showed similar outcomes. ConclusionsThe long-term follow-up of patients after iliac vein stenting showed that uncorrected reflux is well tolerated by most patients across most clinical measures.

Outcome of endovascular treatment of internal iliac artery aneurysms: a single center retrospective review

PurposeTo evaluate the technical feasibility and clinical outcomes of endovascular treatment for internal iliac artery (IIA) aneurysms.Material and methodsThis was a retrospective analysis of 25 patients with 32 IIA aneurysms (mean diameter: 39.1 ± 12.6 mm) who underwent endovascular treatment over a 10-year period, and were available for follow-up. Univariate analysis was used to determine the association between variables (including aortoiliac involvement and technique) and outcome.ResultsThe IIA inflow was covered with an iliac stent graft (N = 29) or embolized with a plug (N = 3). The IIA outflow was embolized in all but one case in which there was thrombotic occlusion of outflow branches. Outflow embolization using plugs or coils was performed in the distal IIA or anterior/posterior trunks in 9 cases and distal IIA branches in 22 cases. During a mean follow-up period of 39.9 months, 31.2% of aneurysms demonstrated endoleak and 12.5% demonstrated enlargement. Univariate analysis revealed that endoleak was associated with technical failure (p = 0.01) and that endoleak rate was higher in patients who underwent distal IIA branch embolization (p = 0.03). No variable was associated with sac expansion. Major complication occurred in one patient who died from aneurysm rupture. Minor complications were reported in six patients who developed femoral pseudoaneurysm (N = 2, 8%), buttock claudication (N = 3, 12%), and limb graft occlusion (N = 1, 4%).ConclusionEndovascular treatment of IIA aneurysms effectively prevents sac expansion. Endoleak was more frequently observed in cases of technical failure and those in which distal IIA branches were embolized.Level of EvidenceLevel 3b, retrospective cohort study.

Is Surgery the Only Fate of the Patient with Leriche Syndrome? Our Endovascular Therapy Results Early Follow-Up Outcomes.

In this research, we aimed to present early follow-up results of the endovascular treatment in patients with Leriche syndrome at our single center. Between October 2020 and January 2022, 14 patients with Leriche syndrome (12 men, two women) who underwent endovascular treatment at our center retrospectively were evaluated. Before the treatment, the ankle-brachial index (ABI) was found 0.50 ± 0.11 on the right leg and 0.45 ± 0.09 on the left leg. All of the patients with Leriche syndrome applied to our clinic for the first time. In five patients, the fully occluded lesion length was over 3 cm (ranging between 3.5-7.2 cm), hence they were treated with aortic and bilateral iliac bare metallic stents. Although in one patient, the aortic occluding lesion was below 3 cm; it was treated with a bare aortic and bilateral bare iliac stent application because the lesion in the aorta was too calcific. In eight patients, the lesion length was less than 3 cm, bilateral iliac metal bare stents were applied in a kissing stent way. Endovascular therapy for chronic aorto-iliac occlusive disease has an early high technical success with primary and secondary patency rates. Especially in patients with high risk factors, it may be considered as a good alternative to conventional surgery.