What is Venous Intervention and Stenting?

Venous intervention and stenting is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat conditions affecting the veins, particularly in cases of venous obstruction or narrowing. It involves the use of specialized catheters and stents to restore proper blood flow and alleviate symptoms.

During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into a vein, typically through a small incision in the skin. The catheter is guided to the affected area using imaging techniques such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy. Once the catheter reaches the site of the obstruction or narrowing, various techniques can be employed:

Balloon Angioplasty: A balloon-tipped catheter is inflated at the site of the blockage or narrowing, compressing the plaque or scar tissue against the vein walls and widening the vessel. This helps to restore blood flow.

Stenting: In some cases, a stent may be placed after balloon angioplasty. A stent is a small, mesh-like tube made of metal or fabric. It is inserted into the vein and expanded, acting as a scaffold to keep the vein open and maintain proper blood flow.

The choice between balloon angioplasty and stenting depends on the specific characteristics of the venous obstruction and the judgment of the interventional radiologist or vascular surgeon performing the procedure.

Venous intervention and stenting can be used to treat various conditions, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), May-Thurner syndrome (compression of the iliac vein by the overlying artery), and post-thrombotic syndrome (complications following DVT). The goal of the procedure is to improve blood flow, relieve symptoms, and prevent further complications associated with venous obstruction or narrowing.

As with any medical procedure, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual circumstances.