STENT IMPLANTATION IN PATIENTS WITH SUPERIOR VENA-CAVA SYNDROME

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of using Wallstent implantation to treat superior vena cava syndrome d ue to malignant tumors. SUBJECTS AND METHODS. Digital subtraction angi ography showed obstruction of the superior vena cava in 13 patients wh o then underwent transluminal dilatation and Wallstent implantation. T he patients were treated with IV heparin and monitored in the emergenc y department. Thereafter, they were treated with a platelet inhibitor for 4 weeks. RESULTS. Because their signs and symptoms improved, patie nts were able to resume radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or both. One patient died of cardiac arrhythmia 1 day after stent placement. Althou gh eight patients have subsequently died of their bronchial or thyroid gland tumors, superior vena cava syndrome did not recur in any patien t. CONCLUSION. Percutaneous implantation of Wallstent endoprostheses p rovides excellent palliation for superior vena cava syndrome.