TIPS, a Trick for Transcaval TEVAR Access.

Purpose: We described an alternative access for thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) deployment using a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) needle for gaining transcaval access to the abdominal aorta.

Case report: A 63-year-old man presented with a penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer in the descending aorta. Traditional transfemoral and transaxillary access were not possible. A transcaval access was established using a TIPS needle to puncture from the caval vein to the aorta. Next, the access was gradually upsized until a 22 french large-bore transcaval access was achieved. Afterwards the thoracic endograft was positioned and deployed accustomed. The infrarenal aortocaval fistula was closed with a covered stent.

Conclusion: When classic TEVAR access is not possible, transcaval access is a valuable and minimally invasive alternative access. We prefer the use of a TIPS needle for gaining access and use a covered stent for closing the aortic access site when possible instead of using electrified wires nor a transseptal occluder device. Preoperative planning remains key.

Clinical impact: We discribe a transcaval access with a TIPS needle and closing of the aortocaval fistula with a covered stent. We are one of fiew reports of transcaval puncturing instead of using an electrified wire and the first using a TIPS needle for gaining transcaval access. We hope this case and our comments help other surgeons, radiologists and patients when they are in need of a transcaval access and contribute to a successful procedure.