Autologous sapheno-saphenous bypass collateral development in the setting of chronic unilateral iliac vein occlusion.

BACKGROUND

Chronic iliac vein occlusion can result in the development of a variety of collateral venous drainage pathways. While several drainage pathways have been well documented, autologous sapheno-saphenous bypass collateral drainage has not been described. This novel collateral drainage pathway is readily visible on cross sectional imaging, may serve as a diagnostic indicator of chronic obstructive venous pathology, and may hint at the underlying etiology.

CASE PRESENTATION

This brief report depicts findings and technical considerations in two cases of venous recanalization of sapheno-saphenous collaterals in the setting of chronic unilateral iliac vein occlusion. In both cases at one-month follow-up, the patients' pain had resolved, edema had improved, and computed tomographic venography demonstrated stent patency.

CONCLUSIONS

Identification of a sapheno-saphenous collateral can provide an important clue to the underlying venous obstructive pathology, therefore guiding corrective intervention.