Complete membranous obstruction of inferior vena cava: case treated by balloon dilatation.

A 30 year-old male with the Budd-Chiari syndrome due to complete membranous obstruction to the inferior vena cava was successfully treated by Brockenbrough needle puncture followed by balloon dilatation of the membrane. The procedure produced marked symptomatic relief and excellent haemodynamic and angiographic results. The case is reported to highlight the application of balloon angioplasty in this rare condition.