Successful stenting of a complex inferior vena cava stenosis using a modified sharp recanulization technique

We describe a case of a 30-year-old male who presented with features of non cirrhotic portal hypertension, who was diagnosed to have inferior vena cava (IVC) obstruction. IVC angiogram and ultrasound study revealed a long-segm ent (36 mm long), chronic total thrombotic occlusion that was dilated and s tented with a satisfactory end result. The unique feature of this case is a modified sharp recanulization technique involving the use of Brokenborough (septal puncture) needle and Mullin dilator to create a track in such a lo ng, chronic total occlusion under simultaneous ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.