Side-by-Side Stenting Repair of a Traumatic Pseudoaneurysm at a Venous Confluence

Abstract

Objectives:

The incidence and prevalence of iatrogenic vascular trauma in the United States is staggering. This has led to the advent and implementation of more efficient and effective vascular repair methods. Although open surgical repair may still be considered gold standard, new endovascular solutions have emerged as other viable options. When using an endovascular approach, proper stent sizing is vital to a successful repair.

Methods:

We present a case of a traumatic injury and pseudoaneurysm formation at the confluence of the right internal jugular and right subclavian veins during a central line placement. This iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm was treated with endovascular placement of side-by-side stents. A mathematical formula, which we have designated “Matteo’s law,” was utilized to select properly sized stent grafts to reconstruct the confluence and prevent infolding and endoleaks.

Results:

After deployment of kissing stents at the confluence of the right internal jugular and right subclavian veins, a venogram was performed, which demonstrated successful exclusion of the pseudoaneurysm and no endoleaks. Clinical follow-up confirms continued wide open flow through the reconstructed venous confluence at 8 months post-procedure.

Conclusion:

In reconstruction of a venous confluence, selection of properly sized stent grafts is paramount to preventing infolding and endoleaks. Matteo’s law states that the circumference of the native receiving vessel must equal the sum of the circumferences of both kissing stent grafts, subtracting the redundant material where the 2 stents interface.