Work

Radiation-Induced Subclavian Artery Stenosis With Varying Lesion Complexity Requiring Revascularization

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Radiation-induced atherosclerosis represents an underestimated clinical entity. CASE SUMMARY: We report on 2 cases of patients with upper-limb ischemia due to subclavian artery lesions. Both patients had radiation therapy due to cancer more than 15 years before symptom onset and no other signs of atherosclerosis. Angiography and intravascular ultrasound were performed in both cases, and lesions were treated with angioplasty and stent placement in the first patient, whereas intravascular lithotripsy was necessary in the second patient due to severe calcification and balloon underexpansion. DISCUSSION & TAKE-HOME MESSAGES: Intravascular ultrasound helps to accurately assess lesion characteristics, size the balloon and stent devices, and judge the effectiveness of the endovascular therapy. Since radiotherapy is linked to accelerated atherosclerosis, such patients may benefit from clinical and imaging surveillance by duplex ultrasound.

Source: JACC Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2025.106248

Authors: Grigorios Korosoglou, Dittmar Böckler, Eric Secemsky

Institutions: H.W. & J. Hector Stiftung, University Hospital Heidelberg, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University

Language: English

Topic: Peripheral Artery Disease Management

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $850