Endovascular removal of the Viatorr stent-grafts : report of two cases

BACKGROUND: The dysfunction of misplaced or dislodged endovascular endoprostheses, may be a serious complication, and endovascular removal may be attempted in some cases. CASE REPORT: A Viatorr® stent-graft (Gore, Flagstaff, AR, USA) is an endoprosthesis designed and commonly used for creation of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). Two Viatorrs were accidentally dislodged during TIPS procedure. In another patient, the Viatorr was malpositioned, with its distal end being placed in the bile duct. All endoprostheses were successfully removed without serious complications. CONCLUSIONS: Removal of a misplaced or dislodged Viatorr endoprosthesis is possible using interventional methods.