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Persistent left superior vena cava: the anatomical and surgical importance
M Erdoğan1, P Karakaş, F Uygur
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Sani Konukoğlu Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey.
The West Indian Medical Journal
|July 12, 2007
Summary
Persistence of the left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is a rare congenital anomaly. This study found PLSVC in 3.3% of cardiac surgery patients, highlighting its importance for avoiding complications.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Anatomy
- Congenital Anomalies
Background:
- Persistence of the left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is a congenital anomaly.
- It results from the failure of the left cardinal vein to degenerate.
- The general population prevalence is approximately 0.3%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of PLSVC in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
- To identify potential complications associated with this anatomical variant.
Main Methods:
- A five-year study involving 152 patients (aged 1-65 years) who underwent cardiac surgery for congenital heart diseases.
- Patients included 64 males and 88 females.
Main Results:
- PLSVC was identified in 5 out of 152 patients, a prevalence of 3.3%.
- All identified PLSVCs drained into the coronary sinus, which was enlarged in all cases.
- The right superior vena cava was absent in 20% of the patients with PLSVC.
Conclusions:
- PLSVC is more prevalent in cardiac surgery patients than in the general population.
- Recognition of this anatomical variant is crucial for preventing potential surgical and clinical complications.
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