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

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.