Transcollateral Recanalization of an Occluded Superior Mesenteric Artery

Objective To report the technique of transcollateral retrograde recanalization of a superior mesenteric artery flush occlusion. Methods The technique of a patient undergoing transcollateral retrograde recanalization for acute symptomatic superior mesenteric artery flush occlusion was reviewed and presented. Other adjunctive methods to facilitate the endovascular treatment of the superior mesenteric artery total occlusion lesion were also compared and discussed. Results The patient was a 47-year-old woman, acute onset of symptomatic chronic mesenteric ischemia with flush occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery which was unable to be revascularized in a routine operation. A collateral was found to connect celiac artery and superior mesenteric artery (gastroduodenal arch). The guidewire was retrograde crossed the occluded lesion via this collateral and recaptured by the catheter from the same single brachial sheath followed by balloon angioplasty and stent implantation. The patient recovered well and the symptoms completely disappeared after the procedure. Conclusion The technique of retrograde recanalization through collateral pathway is an applicable alternative option for patients with superior mesenteric artery flush occlusion who have failed attempts by conventional antegrade approaches.