Australia & New Zealand Society of Vascular Surgeons

Endovascular management is well-suited to these conditions as it offers a relatively non-invasive and speedy resolution in many cases. Acute management is determined by contraindications to thrombolytic drugs. Thrombolytic drugs offer the most complete clearance of thrombus and long term results are largely determined by the amount of thrombus removed. New mechanical devices are used as alternatives and provide restoration of flow but usually less complete thrombus removal. In the acute setting of DVT these endovascular methods are beginning to challenge conventional anticoagulation, compression and elevation regimes. Chronic venous occlusion remains a very difficult area. With new thrombolytic and recanalisation devices a lumen can be provided for angioplasty and stents but restenosis and thrombosis remains a problem. Our research is currently directed towards this area due to the particular patient population associated with our lung transplant program.