Abstract
Objectives To evaluate the utility of a transseptal needle for balloon-assisted sharp recanalization
of chronically occluded central venous structures.
Background Chronically occluded central veins are not an uncommon problem, which may arise due
to a plethora of reasons. Traditionally, wire and catheter techniques are often used
first in an attempt to reestablish flow. When these methods fail, more aggressive
techniques are employed, such as sharp recanalization using the back end of wires,
Teflon-coated wires, or Rosch–Uchida or Colapinto needles. However, utilization of
transseptal needles, traditionally reserved for cardiac procedures, has rarely been
described.
Methods Transseptal needle was utilized for balloon-assisted sharp recanalization after traditional
wire and catheter techniques failed in revascularization of chronically occluded iliac
veins.
Results Transseptal needle was utilized successfully in two cases in revascularization of
chronically occluded central veins.
Conclusion Transseptal needle is a viable tool to add to the interventional radiologists’ armamentarium
in reestablishing flow in chronically occluded central veins.
Keywords
sharp - recanalization - chronic
