Catheter-directed Thrombolysis Compared to Anticoagulation Alone for Acute Primary Iliofemoral Deep Venous Thrombosis

Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) is a complication that can develop after deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the lower extremities. PTS can occur at various times after the initial episode, but usually manifests within two years of initial DVT onset. Early and more complete thrombus clearance is believed by many to relieve venous outflow obstruction, preserve valvular function and reduce venous hypertension. Two previously published randomized controlled trials, the CAVENT trial and the ATTRACT trial, were larger and designed to investigate the efficacy of CDT. However, both of these trials included patients with iliofemoral as well as femoro-popliteal deep vein thrombosis. Our study will be limited to patients with iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis to assess whether Pharmacomechanical catheter-directed thrombolysis (PCDT) therapy utilizing AngioJet and tPA can safely and effectively reduce post thrombotic syndrome after 24 months.