Randomized controlled trials of interventions for acute iliofemoral deep venous thrombosis

J Cardiovasc Surg (Torino). 2024 Feb;65(1):42-48. doi: 10.23736/S0021-9509.23.12926-0. Epub 2024 Jan 16.

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), notably deep venous thrombosis (DVT), represents a significant cardiovascular disease with high morbidity from post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). Recent advancements in early thrombus removal technologies have prompted randomized controlled trials (RCT) to assess their efficacy and safety, particularly for iliofemoral DVT (IF-DVT), which carries the greatest risk of developing PTS. This narrative review summarizes these trials and introduces upcoming innovations to evaluate acute intervention for IF-DVT. Specific technologies discussed include catheter-directed thrombolysis, pharmacomechanical catheter-directed thrombolysis, ultrasound-accelerated catheter-directed thrombolysis, and non-lytic mechanical thrombectomy. This review underscores the importance of patient selection, with those presenting with extensive, symptomatic IF-DVT likely to benefit most.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Femoral Vein / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Iliac Vein / diagnostic imaging
  • Postthrombotic Syndrome* / diagnostic imaging
  • Postthrombotic Syndrome* / etiology
  • Postthrombotic Syndrome* / therapy
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Thrombectomy / adverse effects
  • Thrombolytic Therapy / adverse effects
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Venous Thrombosis* / diagnostic imaging
  • Venous Thrombosis* / therapy