The cause of superior vena cava syndrome: diagnosis with percutaneous atherectomy.

Dake, M D; Zemel, G; Dolmatch, B L; Katzen, B T · Radiology · 1990

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

The cause of superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) in two patients was identified by means of endovascular biopsy of the superior vena cava (SVC) performed with a percutaneous atherectomy catheter. In both cases, the extracted tissues were neoplastic, therefore obviating additional invasive procedures. After a specific diagnosis was established, external-beam radiation therapy was used to treat the SVCS. The atherectomy catheter was used in conjunction with other percutaneous techniques, including balloon angioplasty and endovascular stenting of the SVC.

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