Superior vena cava syndrome associated with massive thrombosis: treatment with expandable wire stents.

Two patients with superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) associated with massive thrombosis were treated by means of local thrombolytic therapy and placement of modified Gianturco expandable wire stents. Treatment resulted in complete resolution of the SVCS symptoms. The combination of local thrombolytic therapy and stent placement allows a more aggressive approach to treatment of SVCS and provides longer-term palliation of symptoms even for patients with later stages of the disease.