Patient Information for Venous Stenosis Treatment

The American Heart Association defines stenosis as a narrowing or constriction of a blood vessel. In cases specifically of venous stenosis, veins are narrowed and require surgical procedures to open the vessels and restore normal blood flow.

Balloon Angioplasty

• In balloon (or percutaneous) angioplasty, a catheter is inserted into the affected blood vessel using X-rays as a guide. Then a balloon fitted to the catheter is inflated, restoring the vein to its correct width and removing the stenosis.

Stents

• Stents may be used along with angioplasty to treat venous stenosis. The collapsed metal mesh is inserted into the vein and then expanded to the width of the blood vessel. After the balloon is removed, the stent keeps the venous walls in place, preventing restenosis.

Thrombolysis

• The USC Center for Vascular Care recommends thrombolysis “for patients with relatively recent occlusions of the arteries and veins.” To treat venous stenosis, a catheter is inserted near the narrowed vein and drugs are administered to remove the blockage.

Risks

• Risks of venous stenosis treatment include allergic reaction to the radiographic dye, arrhythmia, bleeding or damage to the vein caused by the catheter and infections.

Considerations

• Treatment for venous stenosis continues to improve and become less invasive with time. Discuss with your endovascular surgeon which treatment option is best suited for your situation.