Budd-Chiari syndrome treated by percutaneous transluminal angioplasty

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty was performed in a patient with an incomplete obstruction of the inferior vena cava producing the Budd-Chiari syndrome. The web was successfully dilated percutaneously by three simultaneously inflated 9 mm balloon catheters. Symptoms and signs of obstruction of the inferior vena cava improved without any complications. This method is recommended because of its safety, low procedure related risk, and the possibility of recurrent use. (orig.)