Targeted tibio-peroneal re-entry during subintimal revascularization using the Outback® catheter

BACKGROUND: Re-entry devices are used regularly in subintimal recanalization of chronic occlusions of the iliac and femoro-popliteal arteries and significantly contribute to the high success rate of these interventions. However, the use in tibio-peroneal arteries has only been described in few cases so far. The present work is a retrospective evaluation of the Outback® re-entry device for gaining targeted true lumen access at the level of the tibio-peroneal arteries. METHODS: From 9/2017 until 10/2020 the Outback® catheter was used in case of failed spontaneous re-entry at the level of the tibio-peroneal arteries in 14 patients either instead of the usual retrograde approach via a pedal/distal-crural access (n = 11) or in combination with it (n = 3). Baseline demographic and clinical data, morphologic characteristics of the occlusions, procedural succedss, as well as the Society of Vascular Surgery (SVS) runoff score before and after revascularization were documented. RESULTS: All patients (median age: 78 years; range: 66–93) suffered from peripheral artery occlusive disease Rutherford stage 4 to 6 with a median lesion length of 12 cm (range: 7–35). Technical and procedural success was achieved in all 14 patients. The mean re-entry accuracy was 0.25 cm (range: 0–0.8). The SVS runoff score improved from a median of 14.5 (interquartile range IQR: 10.8–16.4) to 7 (IQR: 6.3–7) (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The use of the Outback® catheter for targeted tibio-peroneal re-entry is associated with a high technical and procedural success rate and should be considered in case of otherwise failed ante- and retrograde recanalization.