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Iliac Vein Stenting

Learn about the Iliac Vein Stenting procedure.

What is an Iliac vein stent procedure?

An Iliac vein stent procedure is a commonly performed endovascular treatment at Allegheny Vein and Vascular. It is an endovascular procedure that involves using both fluoroscopy and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) to place a special venous stent into the right, left or both the iliac veins in the pelvis.

Why is iliac vein stenting used?

Endovenous stenting of the iliac veins is the current method of choice in the treatment of chronic venous outflow obstruction. The obstruction is most commonly caused by a condition called May Thurner Syndrome (MTS), where the overlying iliac artery compresses the iliac vein, preventing proper blood flow up and out of the leg on the effected side. Ultimately MTS can cause other problems such as acute blood clots, or old blood clots that turn into scar, further narrowing the iliac vein and decreasing blood flow. Stenting opens up the vein and provides a metal lattice of support for the vein walls thus creating a properly sized tunnel for blood to flow through.

How is an Iliac vein stenting procedure performed?

Iliac Vein stenting is a sterile procedure in which a groin access point is typically  used to insert the catheter needed to carry the stent to its proper location in the pelvis. In some cases, popliteal access (behind the knee) may be used in lieu of the groin.  Both Fluoroscopic and Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) Imaging are used for evaluation of iliac vein narrowings and for proper sizing and placement of the stent(s). After the stent is placed, further imaging is done to ensure proper placement and resolution of any narrowing. The catheter is removed and a small stitch is placed at the groin access.

PRIOR TO YOUR PROCEDURE

Iliac vein stenting is an outpatient procedure we regularly perform at Allegheny Vein and Vascular. This procedure typically takes 30 minutes or less from groin access to closure although the entire process from check in, procedure, post op care to check out can take up to 3 or 4 hours.

Dr. Tahara will provide you with detailed instructions about how to prepare for the procedure during your initial evaluation. Dr. Tahara also explores your medical history during pre-op evaluation, including inquiries about recent illnesses, existing medical conditions, and any allergies you have or medications you’re taking. He will carefully explain how you should manage your regular medications, food, and drink just prior to the procedure. As a typical example, you may be told not to eat or drink anything several hours before arrival. You may also be asked to wear loose and comfortable clothing and refrain from wearing jewelry.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR PROCEDURE

The Allegheny Vein and Vascular nursing staff will call you about 24 hours after your procedure to check up on you. Typically, the patient will also come in for a followup visit with Dr. Tahara about a week after the procedure is completed.  From there on out, you will be scheduled for office visits and duplex ultrasound appointments as necessary.

IMPORTANT: It is vital that patients keep their followup appointments.  The reason for this is that vascular disease is not something that just goes away.  It is a process that continues, even after any necessary procedures have been performed.  Regular monitoring of your condition will be required in order to help you realize your best possible outcome for the long term.

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