Intravascular US-guided lymphatic duct access and intervention
This project has been secured to protect intellectual property.
Login for More InformationThis project develops a safer transvascular approach to the cisterna chyli (CC) via the inferior vena cava (IVC), reducing risks and improving outcomes for lymphatic disorders like chylothorax, with potential for other IVUS-guided procedures.
Project Overview
This project focuses on improving access to the cisterna chyli (CC), a retroperitoneal lymphatic structure that drains into the thoracic duct and plays a critical role in managing lymph from the lower body. Current access techniques, such as transabdominal needle access, pose significant procedural risks due to anatomical variability, patient motion, and equipment complications. The goal is to develop a novel device that enables interventional radiologists to access the CC transvascularly via the inferior vena cava (IVC). This approach is intended to reduce procedural risks and complications while improving patient outcomes, particularly in the management of lymphatic disorders such as chylothorax. Additionally, the proposed device could have broader applications in other minimally invasive procedures guided by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), such as liver biopsies.
Team Picture

Contact Information
Team Members
- Zahed Al-Hajji - Team Leader
- Ray Steinlage - Communicator
- Saivarshini Rishi - BSAC & BPAG
- Leonzio DiCataldo - BWIG
- Chloe Stevens
- Jordan Ewald
Advisor and Client
- Prof. Paul Campagnola - Advisor
- Dr. Eric Monroe - Client
Related Projects
- Spring 2025: Intravascular US-guided lymphatic duct access and intervention
- Fall 2024: Intravascular US-guided lymphatic duct access and intervention