Stent Patency Rates Research Articles

Selective iliofemoral stent placement for complex pediatric cases: a decade of institutional experience.

Pediatric iliofemoral venous thromboembolism that is resistant to conventional treatments poses significant management challenges. Stent placement represents a potentially underutilized strategy in children when stenosis or thrombosis persists intraprocedurally or recurs postoperatively, despite treatments such as venoplasty, lysis, and thrombectomy. This study aims to report our institutional experience with iliofemoral stenting in 17 pediatric patients with recurrent iliofemoral venous thromboembolism or stenosis. We performed an IRB-approved retrospective review of pediatric patients (<18 years of age) who underwent iliofemoral venous stenting for recurrent stenosis or thrombosis between January 2012 and December 2022 at a single tertiary care institution. Patient demographics, risk factors for venous thromboembolism, presenting symptoms, and procedural characteristics were recorded. The primary outcome was stent patency rates at interval imaging follow-up. Seventeen patients with mean age of 14.6 years (range 7-17) and mean BMI of 27.7 were stented during the study period. Sixteen of 17 patients presented with evidence of May-Thurner anatomy. 14/17 patients presented with acute iliofemoral venous thromboembolism, 2/17 with chronic venous thromboembolism, and 1/17 with left lower extremity swelling without thrombosis. Seventy-three total angiographic procedures were performed, which included angioplasty, lysis, and thrombectomy, and 23 stent placements. Patients underwent an average of 3 procedures (range 1-9) over a mean of 2.8 months (range 0-17 months) prior to undergoing stent placement. Stents were deployed successfully in all patients. The median follow-up was 18 months (range, 1-77 months). Primary and secondary patency rates were 13/17 (76%) and 14/14 (100%) at 12 months and 12/17 (71%) and 14/14 (100%) at 24 months, respectively. In our experience of 17 patients, stent placement appears to be a durable option for children with iliofemoral venous thromboembolism following failure to establish vessel patency or development of recurrent thrombosis/stenosis postoperatively.

6-mm shunt transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in patients with severe liver atrophy and variceal bleeding.

We proposed a strategy for the creation of a 6-mm transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) and to assess its effectiveness compared to a conventional 8-mm shunt for TIPS-induced hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Patients were reviewed retrospectively using propensity score matching (1:1) and divided into 6-mm and 8-mm shunt groups based on shunt diameter. The stent patency, HE incidence, and rebleeding rate between the two groups were then compared. From January 2018 to June 2021, both 6-mm shunt group and 8-mm shunt group included 58 patients. The 6-mm shunt group had significantly smaller liver volumes (879.3 ± 237.1 vs. 1008.8 ± 293.0; p = 0.010), and the median stent patency times were 30.7 and 33.8months in the 6-mm and 8-mm groups, respectively (p = 0.124). No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in the 1-year (8.6% vs. 3.4%; p = 0.242) and 2-year (17.2% vs. 12.1%; p = 0.242) rebleeding rates. The 1-year cumulative incidences of overt HE were 12.1% and 27.6% in the 6-mm and 8-mm groups, respectively (p = 0.040), and the 2-year cumulative overt HE incidences in these groups were 19.0% and 36.2%, respectively (p = 0.038). Notably, patients with a 6-mm shunt also experienced less hepatic impairment. For patients with variceal bleeding and a small liver volume, the 6-mm shunt significantly reduced the incidence of overt HE, protected perioperative liver function, and did not affect stent patency or rebleeding rate. For patients with variceal bleeding with small liver volume, the 6-mm transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) significantly reduced the incidence of overt hepatic encephalopathy after TIPS, protected perioperative liver function, and did not affect stent patency and rebleeding rate. • A strategy for the creation of a 6-mm transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for patients with variceal bleeding and a small liver volume was proposed. • The 6-mm transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt significantly reduced the incidence of overt hepatic encephalopathy. • The 6-mm transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt did not affect stent patency or rebleeding rate.

Midterm Outcome of Branch Vessel Stenting for Superior Mesenteric Artery Malperfusion Complicating with Acute Aortic Dissection.

To investigate the midterm stent patency and patient prognosis after stenting for superior mesenteric artery malperfusion complicating with acute aortic dissection. Thirteen patients who underwent branch vessel stenting for superior mesenteric artery malperfusion between 2011 and 2021 in six institutions were retrospectively reviewed. By comparing pre- and postoperative computed tomography scans in the same plane, the length of the stent implanted in the superior mesenteric artery and the stent-to-vessel diameter ratio were measured. The technical and clinical success of stenting, midterm patient prognosis, and stent patency were evaluated. Superior mesenteric artery stenting was technically successful in 12 patients (92.3%). The mean length of the stents implanted in the superior mesenteric artery was 61.3 ± 39.4 mm (range, 14-127 mm). The mean proximal and distal stent-to-vessel diameter ratios were 1.02 ± 0.16 and 1.30 ± 0.42, respectively. A weak correlation was found between the length of the stents implanted in the superior mesenteric artery and the distal stent-to-vessel diameter ratio (R2 = 0.34). Two major complications occurred, one of which resulted in death within 30 days, and 12 (92.3%) were clinically successful. Of these 12 patients, no recurrent intestinal ischemia occurred during the follow-up duration (mean, 45.2 months). Partial occlusion of the stent distal edge without intestinal ischemia was observed in one patient (distal stent-to-vessel diameter ratio = 2.33) 42 months after stenting. The overall survival rate and primary stent patency rate were 84.6% and 91.7%, respectively. Midterm stent patency and survival after superior mesenteric artery stenting for malperfusion were acceptable.

Comparison of specialized stent versus generic stent and bare stent combination for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation using the Viatorr stent remains relatively uncommon in underdeveloped and high-burden disease regions in Asia–Pacific, and there is a lack of comparative studies regarding its prognostic effects compared with the generic stent-graft/bare stent combination. The purpose of this retrospective study is to compare the prognostic endpoints of these two treatments in patients who underwent TIPS creation. Clinical data from 145 patients were collected, including 82 in the combination group and 63 in the Viatorr group. Differences in prognostic endpoints (shunt dysfunction, death, overt hepatic encephalopathy [OHE], rebleeding) between the two groups were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier curves. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to identify independent risk factors for post-TIPS shunt dysfunction. The TIPS procedure was successful in all patients. After TIPS creation, both groups showed a significant decrease in porto-caval pressure gradient compared to that before TIPS creation. The stent patency rates at 6, 12, and 18 months were high in both the combination and Viatorr groups (93.7%, 88.5%, and 88.5% vs. 96.7%, 93.4%, and 93.4%, respectively). The stent patency rates was higher in the combination group than in the Viatorr group, although not statistically significant (HR = 2.105, 95% CI 0.640–6.922, Log-rank P = 0.259). There were no significant differences in other prognostic endpoints (death, OHE, rebleeding) between the two groups. The Cox model identified portal vein diameter (HR = 0.807, 95% CI 0.658–0.990, P = 0.040) and portal vein thrombosis (HR = 13.617, 95% CI 1.475–125.678, P = 0.021) as independent risk factors for post-TIPS shunt dysfunction. The shunt patency rates between the Viatorr stent and the generic stent-graft/bare stent combination showed no significant difference and the generic stent-graft/bare stent combination may be a viable alternative in areas where the Viatorr stent is not yet available.

Efficacy and safety of percutaneous transhepatic biliary radiofrequency ablation in patients with malignant obstructive jaundice.

Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiodrainage (PTCD) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography/endoscopic nasobiliary drainage are the most common clinical procedures for jaundice control in patients with unresectable malignant obstructive jaundice, yet the safety and effect of endobiliary radiofrequency ablation (EB-RFA) combined PTCD is rarely reported, in this article, we report our experience of EB-RFA combined PTCD in such patients. To retrospectively study the efficacy and safety of EB-RFA combined PTCD in patients with unresectable malignant obstructive jaundice. Patients with unresectable malignant obstructive jaundice treated with EB-RFA under PTCD were selected, the bile ducts of the right posterior lobe was selected as the target bile ducts in all cases. The general conditions of all patients, preoperative tumour markers, total bilirubin (TBIL), direct bilirubin (DBIL), albumin (ALB), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and glutamyl transferase (GGT) before and on the 7th day after the procedure, as well as perioperative complications, stent patency time and patient survival were recorded. All patients successfully completed the operation, TBIL and DBIL decreased significantly in all patients at the 7th postoperative day (P = 0.009 and 0.006, respectively); the values of ALB, ALP and GGT also decreased compared with the preoperative period, but the difference was not statistically significant. Perioperative biliary bleeding occurred in 2 patients, which was improved after transfusion of blood and other conservative treatments, pancreatitis appeared in 1 patient after the operation, no serious complication and death happened after operation. Except for 3 patients with loss of visits, the stent patency rate of the remaining 14 patients was 100% 71% and 29% at the 1st, 3rd, and 6th postoperative months respectively, with a median survival of 4 months. EB-RFA under PTCD in patients with unresectable malignant obstructive jaundice has a satisfactory therapeutic effect and high safety, which is worthy of further clinical practice.

Percutaneous endobiliary radiofrequency ablation with stent placement in type IV hilar cholangiocarcinoma: A prospective comparison with stent placement alone

ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare the safety and effectiveness of percutaneous endobiliary radiofrequency ablation with stent placement (RFA group) versus stent placement alone (stent group) in patients with type IV hilar cholangiocarcinoma. MethodsThis prospective nonrandomized study was conducted between October 2021 and April 2023. The study included 56 participants (33 men and 23 women, median age 73 years) who underwent percutaneous endobiliary RFA with stent placement (n = 25) or stent placement alone (n = 31) for type IV hilar cholangiocarcinoma. The primary end point was stent patency, while the secondary end points were procedure-related adverse events (AE) and overall survival. ResultsThe percutaneous endobiliary RFA and/or stent placement were successfully completed in all patients in both groups. The median stent patency rate was higher in the RFA group than the stent group (188 days vs. 155 days, p = 0.048). There were no differences in AEs (grade 1 [5 in RFA group vs. 5 in stent group, p = 0.74] and grade 2 AEs [2 vs. 4, p = 0.68]) and patients’ survival (median 222 days vs. 214 days, p = 0.49) between the two groups. ConclusionsIn patients with type IV hilar cholangiocarcinoma, percutaneous endobiliary RFA with stent placement may improve stent patency without increasing the risk of AEs compared to stent placement alone.

Clinical study of 57 cases of endovascular treatment for total subclavian artery occlusion.

To investigate the safety and efficacy of endovascular treatment for totally occlusive lesions of the subclavian artery (SCA). A retrospective study was performed on 57 patients treated with angioplasty and stenting, including 42 males and 15 females, with an average age of 61.8years (range: 49 to 81years). Efficacy, safety, and complications were evaluated. Procedural success was achieved for 47/57 patients and symptoms were relieved. Rat-tail occlusion is the most common type, and all cases were successfully recanalized. Plain type occlusion is less common with a recanalization rate of 55.6%. Hilly and plain occlusions are the main types of stent implantation failure. Through univariate analysis and trend matching analysis, the type of SCA occlusion and surgical approach had statistical significance on the success rate of surgery. The mean follow-up time was 34.6 ± 16.2months. The cumulative stent patency rates at 1, 3, and 5years were 95.5%, 86.4%, and 77.3% in the calcified plaque group and 92.0%, 76.0%, and 68.0% in the non-calcified plaque group, respectively. The 3-year and 5-year patency rates in the calcified plaque group were higher than those in the non-calcified plaque group (p < .05). Different occlusion types and surgical approaches can affect the surgical success rate. The combined femoral and brachial approach can improve the rate of recanalization of SCA occlusions. The patency rates at 3 and 5years in the calcified plaque group were higher than those in the non-calcified plaque group.

A decade's experience with retrograde open mesenteric stenting for acute mesenteric ischemia

ObjectiveRetrograde open mesenteric stenting (ROMS) is an alternative to mesenteric bypass in patients with acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) with variable reported 30-day mortality rates. Large studies evaluating patient outcomes following ROMS are scarce. Our study aims to assess the results of this approach among patients presenting with AMI. MethodsWe reviewed all the patients with AMI who were treated with ROMS (2011-2022). Patient demographics, presentation, operative details, and outcomes were analyzed. Primary end points were in-hospital, 30-day, and 1-year mortality. Kaplan-Meier estimate for 1-year mortality and primary patency loss were generated. Secondary end points included postoperative 30-day complications. ResultsBetween 2011 and 2022, ROMS was attempted on a total of 42 patients. The median age was 70 ± 15 years and the majority of patients were female. Pain out of proportion to the physical examination was the most common presenting symptom (n = 18, 42.9%) followed by peritonitis (n = 14, 33.4%). All patients underwent preoperative intravenous contrast computed tomography imaging. In situ thrombosis was identified as the etiology of AMI in 36 patients (85.7%). Technical success was achieved in 40 patients (95.2%). Conventional, non-hybrid operating rooms were used for the majority of cases. Revascularization of all 40 patients involved angioplasty and stenting of superior mesenteric artery. A single stent was placed in 35 patients (87.5%) and the reminder had more than one stent. Eighty percent of patients required bowel resection. A second-look laparotomy was required in 34 patients (85.0%). The mean operative time, including both the general surgery and vascular surgery portions of the index procedure, was 192 ± 57 minutes. Sepsis was the most common complication observed within 30 days, occurring in 8 patients (20.0%). In terms of mortality, 13 patients (32.5%) died during their index hospitalization, and 9 died (22.5%) within 30 days. On Kaplan-Meier analysis, the 1-year overall patient survival rate was 58.6%, and the primary patency rate for stents was 51.4%. ConclusionsROMS has an excellent technical success rate in management of AMI with lower than traditionally reported mortality rates for AMI. The dual benefits of rapid revascularization and bowel evaluation should make this surgical modality an alternative approach for treatment of AMI.

The Safety and Efficacy of ZelanteDVT™ Catheter Rheolytic Thrombectomy in the Treatment of Patients with Iliac Vein Stent Thrombosis

ObjectiveTo examine the safety and efficacy of ZelanteDVT™ catheter rheolytic thrombectomy in the treatment of patients with iliac vein stent thrombosis. MethodsA retrospective analysis method was conducted by means of collecting the data of 32 patients who had completed the treatment of iliac vein stent thrombosis with ZelanteDVT™ catheter rheolytic thrombectomy from March 2019 to March 2023. Data on clinical characteristics, technical success, clinical success, complications, and early follow-up were analysed. ResultsThe technical success rates were 100%, intraoperatively, in which 22 cases were improved to thrombus clearance Grade II (50-90%), 10 were Grade III (＞90%). There were 21 cases treated with subsequent catheter directed thrombolysis (CDT), and the average urokinase administration of (120.90±29.63)*10ˆ4 units. The clinical success rates were 100% and the swelling of the affected limbs were significantly improved, a significant difference in the pre/post-operative between-thigh circumference difference [(5.16±1.08) vs (1.75±0.84), P＜0.000]. The pre/post-operative VCSS was [ (12.94±1.70) vs (7.44±1.31), P＜0.000]. No serious complications occurred during the perioperative period. The post-operative and 12-month stent patency rate was 100.00% (32/32) and 71.88% (23/32), respectively. ConclusionThe ZelanteDVT™ catheter rheolytic thrombectomy seems to have a promising application prospect for the treatment of patients with iliac vein stent thrombosis.

Safety and efficacy of large-bore uncovered stents for treating malignant superior vena cava syndrome

PurposeTo investigate the safety and efficacy of large-bore uncovered stents for treating malignant superior vena cava syndrome. MethodsThis retrospective study included 115 patients (89 men, 26 women; mean age 63.2 years; range 21–83 years) who underwent endovascular large-bore (≥18 mm in diameter) uncovered stent placement between August 2015 and July 2022. One patient was lost to follow-up. Therefore, 114 patients were available for follow-up. ResultsStent placement was technically successful in all 115 patients. Minor procedure-related complications occurred in nine (7.8 %) patients. One hundred eight (93.9 %) patients experienced complete or marked symptomatic relief (Kishi score ≤ 2) at a mean of 3 days after procedure. The cumulative stent patency rates were 98.2 %, 95 %, 93.7 %, 91.5 %, 83.5 %, and 83.5 % at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, respectively. Stent occlusion occurred in ten (8.8 %) of 114 patients at a mean of 215 days (range 1–732 days) due to thrombosis (n = 7) and tumor ingrowth (n = 3). Stent occlusion did not occur in 21 patients who underwent subsequent central venous catheter insertion. The median patient survival time was 159 days (95 % confidence interval 102–216 days). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed adjuvant anticancer treatment (p = 0.001) and tumor response (p < 0.001) as independent predictors of patient survival. ConclusionsEndovascular placement of large-bore uncovered stents was a safe and effective treatment for malignant superior vena cava syndrome. Large-bore stent placement can effectively prevent stent occlusion by tumor ingrowth in most cases, and it can provide a sufficient diameter for subsequent insertion of central venous catheters.

Transarterial chemoembolization plus stent placement for hepatocellular carcinoma with main portal vein tumor thrombosis: A meta-analysis.

Portal vein tumor thrombus is an important indicator of poor prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Transarterial chemoembolization is recommended as the standard first-line therapy for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Portal vein stent placement is a safe and effective therapy for promptly restoring flow and relieving portal hypertension caused by tumor thrombus. To assess the clinical significance of transarterial chemoembolization plus stent placement for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with main portal vein tumor thrombosis. We searched English and Chinese databases, assessed the quality of the included studies, analyzed the characteristic data, tested heterogeneity, explored heterogeneity, and tested publication bias. In total, eight clinical controlled trials were included. The results showed that the pressure in the main portal vein after stent placement was significantly lower than that with no stent placement. The cumulative stent patency and survival rates at 6 and 12 months were lower in the transarterial chemoembolization + stent placement group than in the transarterial chemoembolization + stent placement + brachytherapy/radiotherapy group. The survival rates of patients treated with transarterial chemoembolization + stent placement for 6 and 12 months were higher than those of patients treated with transarterial chemoembolization alone. For Chinese patients with hepatocellular carcinoma with main portal vein tumor thrombosis, transarterial chemoembolization plus stenting is effective. Transarterial chemoembolization + stent placement is more effective than transarterial chemoembolization alone. Transarterial chemoembolization + stent placement + brachytherapy/radiotherapy is more effective than transarterial chemoembolization + stenting.

Stent-Graft Placement for Hepatic Arterial Hemorrhage after Pancreaticobiliary Surgery: Long-Term Clinical Outcomes

PurposeTo evaluate the safety and long-term clinical outcomes of stent-graft placement to treat hepatic arterial hemorrhage after pancreaticobiliary surgery. Materials and MethodsOutcomes were retrospectively evaluated in 61 patients (50 men and 11 women; mean age, 63 years) who underwent stent-graft placement for delayed arterial hemorrhage (after 24 hours) after pancreaticobiliary surgery from 2006 to 2023. Bleeding sites included the gastroduodenal artery stump (n = 54), common or proper hepatic artery (n = 5), and right hepatic artery (n = 2). The stent-grafts used were Viabahn (n = 27), Comvi (n = 11), Jostent (n = 3), Covera (n = 11), and Lifestream (n = 7). Technical and clinical success and adverse events (AE) were evaluated. After stent-graft placement, overall survival (OS), hemorrhage-free survival (HFS), and stent patency were evaluated. ResultsThe technical and clinical success rates of stent-graft placement were 97% and 93%, respectively. The severe AE rate was 12% and was significantly higher in patients who underwent pylorus-sacrificing rather than pylorus-preserving surgery (P = .001). None of the severe AEs were associated with patient mortality. Median OS after stent-graft placement was 854 days, and median HFS was 822 days. The 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year stent patency rates were 87%, 84%, 79%, and 72%, respectively. ConclusionsStent-graft placement was safe and provided long-term control of hepatic arterial hemorrhage after pancreaticobiliary surgery.

A Case of Winching technique: A practical approach for insuperable chronicaly occluded indwelling iliac venous stents

Chronic iliac vein occlusions and post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) are the major sources of life affecting symptomatic iliocaval venous obstruction contributing to the morbidity of chronic venous insufficiency and venous hypertension. Venous stenting is a treatment option for the management of PTS. Despite dedicated venous recanalization technologies, long-term patency rates of venous stents are still a matter of debate. Beside that, salvage of an occluded stent could be problematic or even impossible. It may be challenging to advance the balloon catheter distally to the occlusion, even after the lesion has been crossed with a guide wire. Here we describe a new technique for overcoming such difficult bottlenecks. In a supine patient, despite successful wire-recanalization of the vena cava, achieved after a popliteal access, the balloon catheter could not be passed through an occluded iliac vein stent and towards the vena cava. Consequently, the tip of the 260 cm wire, was retrieved with a snare from the vena cava and externalized through sheath inserted in the right jugular vein. Two separate balloon catheters were loaded over the two ends of the through and through guide wire and torque devices were used to lock at their exit ports. Occluded segments were afterwards crossed with the novel ‘Winching technique’ by pulling the balloon catheter instead of pushing it. We believe that this technique can speed up and facilitate the procedure for the occlusions that can be laborious to reanalyze by conventional methods.

Pharmacomechanical thrombectomy of iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis is associated with a low incidence of post-thrombotic syndrome and perioperative complications.

Iliofemoral deep venous thrombosis (IFDVT) is associated with an incidence of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) of up to 50%. PTS is associated with high morbidity, impaired quality of life and a significant economic burden. The aim of the current study was to assess the impact of a single session pharmacomechanical thrombectomy (PMT), dedicated venous stents and a risk mitigation protocol on the rate of PTS. Between 2015 and 2022, patients presenting with acute or subacute IFDVT treated with the same protocol of single session PMT, dedicated venous stents, and risk-mitigation measures were included. Procedural success rate, complications, stent patency and incidence of PTS were determined. Of 60 patients (58 ± 19 years; 65% male), the procedural success rate was 93%, with 7% of patients experiencing complications but no long-term sequelae or mortality. Most (n = 52; 87%) patients were stented, including 46% across the inguinal ligament. At 3 months post-procedure, primary, assisted primary and secondary stent patency rates were 89%, 93% and 98%, respectively, with no loss of patency or re-interventions after that. At latest follow-up of a median 48 months (n = 32), stent patency rate was 97%, with only three patients (9%) experiencing symptoms of PTS. Single session PMT, dedicated venous stents and a risk-mitigation protocol results in high success rate, excellent long-term stent patency and low incidence of PTS without compromising safety. These results support early intervention for iliofemoral DVT.

DRUG-ELUTING STENTS OUTCOMES IN DIABETICS WITH CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE AND PULMONARY IMPLICATIONS

The study aims to investigate the outcomes of drug-eluting stents (DES) in patients with diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease (CAD) while considering implications for pulmonary and cardiac health. A prospective observational study design was employed. A cohort of 54 patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with DES implantation was included. Primary outcome measures included stent patency rates, restenosis rates, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and pulmonary function tests. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on age and gender. The study unveiled a 91.5% stent patency rate at six months and a 12.3% restenosis rate. Furthermore, the cumulative MACE incidence at one year was 18.5%. Subgroup analysis identified gender-based differences in restenosis rates and a slightly elevated MACE incidence among patients with longer diabetes duration. Importantly, pulmonary function tests, encompassing spirometer and lung volume assessments, demonstrated no significant pulmonary impairment following DES implantation. These assessments indicated only a marginal 1.2% reduction in FEV1, while TLC remained statistically unchanged, reassuring that DES utilization does not adversely impact pulmonary health. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of DES as a viable intervention in managing CAD in diabetic patients with potential implications for both cardiac and pulmonary health. The outcomes highlight DES's potential to enhance long-term cardiovascular effects in this high-risk population.

Anchoring fins of fully covered self-expandable metal stents affect pull-out force and stent migration

Background and AimsStent migration and subsequent adverse events are frequently observed in the use of fully covered self-expanding metal stents (FCSEMS) for distal biliary stenosis. In this study, we aimed to identify predictors for stent migration based on biomechanical stent characteristics and to associate these findings with clinical outcomes. MethodsThe migration resistance of FCSEMS was quantified by measuring the pull-out force. We analyzed a single-center retrospective cohort of 178 FCSEMS for treatment success and adverse events occurring during 180 days of follow-up. ResultsBiomechanical measurements revealed a 4-fold higher migration resistance of FCSEMS with anchoring fins (AF, Fmax=14.2+/-0.1 N) compared to FCSEMS with flare ends (FE, Fmax=3.8+/-1.0 N, p<0.0001). Clinically, AF-FCSEMS showed lower rates of migration compared to the FE-FCSEMS (5% vs. 34%, p<0.0001). Unscheduled ERCP due to stent dysfunction was less frequent in the AF-group compared to the FE-group (15% vs. 29%, p=0.046). Cholangitis due to stent dysfunction was observed in 5% of the AF-FCSEMS compared to 19% in the FE-FCSEMS group (p=0.02). Stent patency rates at 1, 3, and 6 months were higher in the AF-group (96 %, 90%, and 80%) compared to the FE-group (90%, 74%, and 66%) (Log-rank test: p=0.03). ConclusionsThe pull-out force as biomechanical stent property predicts the migration resistance of FCSEMS in distal biliary stenosis and may thus be used to classify stents for this application. AF-FCSEMS showed a significantly lower rate of migration and adverse events compared to FE-FCSEMS.

Coagulation-monitored, dose-adjusted catheter-directed thrombolysis or pharmaco-mechanical thrombus removal in deep vein thrombosis.

Background: Pharmaco-mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) and catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) are therapeutic options for selected patients with acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) to prevent post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). Patients and methods: We aimed to describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of 159 patients with symptomatic iliofemoral DVT undergoing PMT alone, CDT alone, or CDT followed by PMT (bail-out) in the Swiss Venous Stent Registry. The primary outcome was the incidence of peri-interventional major and minor bleeding complications (ISTH criteria). Secondary outcomes included the incidence of PTS and stent patency after 3 years. Results: Mean age was 49±20 years and 58% were women. DVT involved the iliac veins in 99% of patients, whereas 53% had an underlying iliac vein compression. PMT alone was used in 40 patients, CDT alone in 77, and 42 received initial CDT followed by bail-out PMT due to insufficient thrombus clearance. Single-session PMT was the preferred approach in patients with iliac vein compression, patent popliteal vein, and absence of IVC thrombus. Patients treated with PMT alone received a lower r-tPA dose (median 10 mg, IQR 10-10) vs. those treated with CDT (20 mg, IQR 10-30). The rate of peri-interventional major bleeding was 0%, 1%, and 2%, whereas that of minor bleeding was 0%, 1%, and 12%, respectively, all occurring during CDT. After 3 years, PTS occurred in 6%, 9%, and 7% of patients, respectively. The primary stent patency rate was 95%, 88%, and 83%, respectively. Conclusions: The use of PMT and CDT for iliofemoral DVT was overall safe and resulted in high long-term patency and treatment success. Given the less severe presentation of DVT, single-session PMT appeared to be characterized by numerically better primary patency and lower perioperative bleeding event rates than CDT.

Second Covered and Uncovered Self-Expandable Metal Stents for Recurrent Gastric Outlet Obstruction: A Retrospective Comparative Study.

Background: Endoscopic self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement is a current mainstay for malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO), but symptomatic recurrence due to initial SEMS dysfunction commonly occurs. We aimed to compare the safety and effectiveness of second SEMS for recurrent GOO (RGOO). Methods: Between April 2006 and December 2022, a total of 95 cases with malignant RGOO undergoing second endoscopic SEMS placement were enrolled. Technical and clinical success rates, RGOO, time to RGOO (TRGOO), stent patency rate, adverse events (AE), and overall survival (OS) were retrospectively compared between covered and uncovered SEMS (cSEMS/uSEMS) groups. Risk factors for TRGOO were also explored. Results: Baseline characteristics were well balanced between cSEMS (n = 48) and uSEMS (n = 47) groups, except for the causes of the initial SEMS dysfunction. High technical and clinical success rates with a similar incidence of AE (15% vs. 17%, p = 0.78) and OS (median of 101 vs. 102 days, p = 0.68) were achieved in both groups. There were no statistical differences in cumulative incidence of RGOO (19% vs. 13%, p = 0.58), TRGOO (median, not reached in both groups, p = 0.57), and stent patency rates at 1, 2, and 3 months between the groups (60%, 47% and 26%, respectively vs. 70%, 55% and 38%, respectively). However, TRGOO tended to be longer in cSEMS in cases with RGOO due to tumor ingrowth (median, not reached vs. 111 days, p = 0.19). A Cox regression analysis demonstrated that chemotherapy after second SEMS placement was significantly associated with an improved TRGOO (the hazard ratio of 0.27 [95% confidence interval, 0.08-0.93], p = 0.03). Conclusions: Regardless of the type of SEMS, second SEMS placement was similarly safe and effective for RGOO. The type of second SEMS might be considered based on the cause of initial SEMS dysfunction.

Allium ureteral stent for the treatment of malignant ureteral obstruction: A median term study.

This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of Allium ureteral stents for the maintenance therapy of malignant ureteral obstruction (MUO). Clinical data of 25 patients (27 sides) with ureteral obstruction caused by a malignant tumor from December 2018 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative ultrasonography and computed tomography urography indicated hydronephrosis and MUO. Allium ureteral stents were placed using a retrograde or antegrade approach. Therapeutic effects and complications were recorded. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare continuous variables between the preoperative and the last follow-up. A total of 25 patients (27 sides) were included in this study. After a follow-up time of 18 (11-29) months, the width of hydronephrosis [1.6 (1.0-2.2) cm vs 2.6 (1.2-3.3) cm, P = .000], glomerular filtration rate [83.8 (58.1-86.4) mL/minutes/1.73 m2 vs 74.5 (56.8-79.1) mL/minutes/1.73 m2, P = .001] and score of ureteral stent symptoms questionnaire [77 (76-79) vs 100 (98-103), P = .000] was significantly improved. Stent migration occurred in 3 of the 25 patients within 3 months after surgery. All patients with complications were followed up for at least 6 months after stent adjustment or exchange, and no other complications were found. Two patients died because of malignant complications. The stent patency rate was 88.9% (24/27) after the first operation, and 100% (27/27) after complications were treated. The Allium ureteral stent is safe and effective for the maintenance therapy of MUO, which can dramatically relieve the symptoms of patients. Stent migration is a major complication that can be resolved by endoscopic adjustment.

Comparison of Balloon-Occluded Thrombolysis with Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis in Patients of Budd-Chiari Syndrome with Occluded Direct Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt.

Objectives Direct intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (DIPS) stent placement is an effective treatment for patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS); however, thrombotic occlusion of DIPS stent remains a cause of concern. The purpose of this study is to describe a novel technique of balloon-occluded-thrombolysis (BOT) for occluded DIPS stent, and compare it with the conventional catheter-directed-thrombolysis (CDT). Methods In this retrospective study, the hospital database was searched for BCS patients who underwent DIPS revision for thrombotic stent occlusion between January 2015 and February 2021. Patients were divided into CDT group and BOT group. The groups were compared for technical success, total dose of thrombolytic agent administered, duration of hospital stay, and primary assisted stent patency rates at 1- and 6-month follow-up. Results CDT was performed in 12 patients, whereas 21 patients underwent BOT. Complete recanalization was achieved in 66.7% (8 of 12) patients of CDT group as compared to 81% (17 of 21) patients of BOT group (nonsignificant difference, p = 0.420). BOT group had a short hospital stay (1.8 ± 0.7 vs. 3.5 ± 1.0 days) and required less dose of thrombolytic agent ([2.2 ± 0.4]x10 5 IU versus [8.3 ± 2.9]x10 5 IU of urokinase) as compared to the CDT group and both differences were statistically significant ( p < 0.001). Further, 6-month patency rate was higher in BOT group as compared to CDT group ( p = 0.024). Conclusion The novel BOT technique of DIPS revision allows longer contact time of thrombolytic agent with the thrombi within the occluded stent. This helps in achieving fast recanalization of thrombosed DIPS stent with a significantly less dose of thrombolytic agent required, thus reducing the risk of systemic complications associated with thrombolytic administration.