Interventional Radiology: Venous
Venous Angioplasty / Stent (Renal Dialysis Access)

Also called: Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA)

Venous angioplasty is a non-surgical procedure, which can be performed during venogram to open or bypass narrowed veins to prevent thombosis (clotting). Venous angioplasty can also allow for placement of a small device (stent), which supports a vessel or tissue in an open or expanded position to allow bypass of scarred tissue and improve blood flow.

For venous angioplasty procedure, a venogram (procedural x-ray of veins) is performed. Once blocked or narrowed vessel(s) are visualized on the venogram, a balloon tipped catheter is inserted into the blocked vein and guided under fluoroscopic x-ray to the area of concern. The balloon is inflated to correct the blockage and enable blood flow. In some circumstances, a stent is mounted on the balloon tipped catheter. When the balloon is inflated, the stent is expanded and adheres (permanently) to the walls of the vessel to keep it open.