# Radiofrequency wire-assisted recanalization of a chronically occluded common femoral vein after intravenous drug use

## TL;DR

A 52-year-old woman with a history of drug use had a long-blocked vein successfully treated using a special radiofrequency wire technique.

## Contribution

First report of radiofrequency wire-assisted recanalization for chronic femoral vein occlusion in a drug use patient.

## Key findings

- Radiofrequency wire successfully recanalized a chronically occluded common femoral vein.
- Symptomatic improvement and vein patency were maintained at 3 months post-procedure.
- Multiplanar venography and arterial landmarks improved procedural safety in the femoral region.

## Abstract

Chronic common femoral vein occlusion presents a significant management challenge, particularly when associated with prior intravenous drug use. We report a 52-year-old woman, sober for 10 years, with symptomatic chronic common femoral vein occlusion after two failed recanalization attempts. Successful recanalization was achieved with a Baylis radiofrequency wire (Baylis Medical), followed by balloon venoplasty and placement of a 14-mm Abre venous stent (Medtronic). The patient experienced symptomatic improvement with preserved patency at 3 months. To our knowledge, this report is the first to describe radiofrequency wire-assisted crossing of a chronic common femoral vein occlusion in a patient with a history of intravenous drug use. We also highlight technique considerations unique to the femoral region—multiplanar venography and the use of arterial landmarks to avoid the femoral artery and femoral nerve—to enhance procedural safety.