Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) through a below-the-knee (BTK) approach for acute lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (DVT).
Methods: A retrospective review of DVT patients treated with PMT by the BTK approach at our center from April 2022 to August 2023 was performed. Their preoperative demographics, intraoperative data, and postoperative outpatient outcomes were analyzed.
Results: A total of 12 patients (67% men; mean age, 63 years) met the inclusion criteria. The BTK approach was successfully achieved in all patients through the posterior tibial vein (n = 1), anterior tibial vein (n = 2), and peroneal vein (n = 9). PMTs were achieved in 11 (92%) patients. Successful lysis (grade II and grade III lysis) was achieved in all patients with PMT. Four (33%) patients had residual venous occlusion over the popliteal vein. No intraoperative complications or bleeding events occurred in any of the patients.
Conclusion: PMT via BTK puncture seems to be a safe and effective approach for treating lower extremity DVT. It is reserved for highly select patients with a low risk of bleeding and is performed at centers that have experience with this procedure.
Keywords: catheter-directed thrombolysis; deep venous thrombosis; percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy; peripheral intervention; peroneal vein.