Revascularization of Chronic Iliac Vein Occlusion Using Balloon-Assisted Transseptal Needle Puncture Technique

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.