Long-term results using catheter-directed thrombolysis in 103 lower limbs with acute iliofemoral venous thrombosis.
OBJECTIVE
The long-term outcome of catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) in patients with acute iliofemoral venous thrombosis (IFVT) is evaluated in this study.


METHODS
Patients presenting for treatment with IFVT between June 1999 and May 2007 were considered for treatment using CDT. The following inclusion criteria were used: first episode of IFVT, age below 60 years, age of thrombus <14 days and open distal popliteal vein. Ultrasonography (US) was used to verify the diagnosis. The popliteal vein was punctured under local anaesthesia using US guidance, and a multi-side-hole catheter with tip occlusion was placed in the thrombus. A solution of r-TPA was infused either continuously or using the pulse spray technique together with heparin. Any occlusion or residual stenosis in the iliac vein system was treated by stenting. Compression stockings and anticoagulation treatment were given for at least 12 months. Patients with severe thrombophilias were treated for longer periods. The patients were assessed by colour-duplex US for assessment of patency and valve function after 6 weeks, 3, 6 and 12 months and afterwards on a yearly basis.


RESULTS
A total of 101 patients with 103 extremities affected by iliofemoral venous thrombosis were included (median age; 29 years, 78 women, and 79 had left-sided thrombosis). A stent was inserted in 57 limbs. The median follow-up time was 50 months (range 3 days-108 months). At 6 years, 82% of the limbs had patent veins with competent valves and without any skin changes or venous claudication.


CONCLUSIONS
Treatment with CDT for IFVT achieves good patency and vein function after 6 years of follow-up in this highly selected group of patients. We suggest that results from future studies should be presented as Kaplan-Meier plots using venous patency without reflux as the main outcome, since it is an early indicator of the clinical outcome.
Baekgaard
N
N
Vascular Clinic, Rigshospitalet and Gentofte, University of Copenhagen, Department of Vascular Surgery, Gentofte Hospital, Denmark. Baekgaard@dadlnet.dk
Broholm
R
R
Just
S
S
Jørgensen
M
M
Jensen
L P
LP
D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002406:Catheterization, Peripheral; D003718:Denmark; D005260:Female; D005268:Femoral Vein / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D007084:Iliac Vein / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D048228:Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Devices; D053208:Kaplan-Meier Estimate; D035002:Lower Extremity / Q000098:blood supply*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D053828:Stockings, Compression; D015912:Thrombolytic Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D013997:Time Factors; D010959:Tissue Plasminogen Activator / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D018615:Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color; D018084:Ultrasonography, Interventional; D014654:Vascular Patency; D020246:Venous Thrombosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology
D000925:Anticoagulants; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents; D010959:Tissue Plasminogen Activator