Percutaneous iliac vein recanalization 17 years after thrombotic occlusion.

Persistent venous outflow obstruction of the iliac veins is one of the mechanisms that seem to portend the greatest risk for late development of severe complications. We report the case of a 42-year-old male with postthrombotic occlusion of the left external iliac artery since the age of 25. We managed to recanalize the obstructed vessel and establish a good flow into the inferior vena cava by venous stenting. After successful intervention the patient reported instant symptom relief and was free from venous claudication and leg heaviness at the 6 month follow-up examination. Even after long history of postthrombotic syndrome, venous stenting can be an option for patients with chronic outflow obstructions of the iliac veins.