Intravascular stents in the management of acute superior vena cava obstruction of benign etiology.

The purpose of our study was to report our experience with percutaneous placement of intravascular stents to relieve venous occlusion in patients with acute superior vena cava syndrome resulting from benign etiologies. Six patients ranging in age from 39 to 66 years received thrombolysis followed by placement of stents within the superior vena cava or received stent placement alone as emergency treatment for symptoms of acute superior vena cava obstruction. Treatment was successful in all patients, with establishment of a patent lumen angiographically, and patients experienced prompt symptomatic relief. Follow-up examination at intervals of 5 months to 2 years has demonstrated no evidence of reocclusion. Three patients have subsequently had central lines placed across the stented vena cava for vascular access. Percutaneous placement of intravascular stents to treat acute occlusion offered a safe and effective method of treatment in patients with superior vena cava syndrome resulting from benign causes.