Retrograde recanalization of a chronic total occlusion of a saphenous vein graft

Percutaneous revascularization of chronically occluded coronary arteries remains technically challenging, with far lower procedural success rates compared to other lesion subsets. Retrograde approach via septal collateral is more promising for improving success rates of this lesion in native coronary arteries. The potential benefits of successful treatment results in improvement in angina and mortality are well established. Occluded saphenous vein graft recanalization retrogradely has not been described before. We describe a case of retrograde recanalization of chronically occluded saphenous vein graft. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.