Venous Recanalization — Angioplasty and Venous Stenting

🔹 What is post-thrombotic syndrome?

Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) occurs after deep vein thrombosis when residual obstruction causes chronic venous hypertension. Symptoms include chronic edema, pain, skin discoloration, pruritus, and venous ulcers. When the obstruction is located in the iliac or femoral veins, recanalization can restore venous drainage.

🔹 Procedure

Venous recanalization involves opening the obstructed vein with a balloon (angioplasty) and placing one or more venous stents (Nitinol self-expanding) to keep it open permanently, restoring normal venous outflow.

🔹 Eligibility

Obstructive PTS with significant clinical impairment (Villalta score, CIVIQ questionnaire). Obstruction confirmed at iliofemoral or inferior vena cava level by phleboCT, Doppler, or venous MRI. Discussion at multidisciplinary meeting.

🔹 Results

Technical success >90%. Clinical improvement in approximately 99% of cases. Over 70% of patients become completely asymptomatic. Anticoagulation required for at least 6 months post-procedure.

🔹 Follow-up

Doppler ultrasound the day after, then at 1, 3, and 6 months. CT scan at 1 year. Outpatient visit at 6 months and 1 year.

📄 Patient information sheet

📄 Patient Information Sheet