Successful stenting of a complex inferior vena cava stenosis using a modified sharp recanulization technique

We describe a case of a 30‐year‐old male who presented with features of noncirrhotic portal hypertension, who was diagnosed to have inferior vena cava (IVC) obstruction. IVC angiogram and ultrasound study revealed a long‐segment (36 mm long), chronic total thrombotic occlusion that was dilated and stented with a satisfactory end result. The unique feature of this case is a modified sharp recanulization technique involving the use of Brokenborough (septal puncture) needle and Mullin dilator to create a track in such a long, chronic total occlusion under simultaneous ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2001;52:492–495. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.