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Updated: Apr 12, 2026

Image Acquisition Method for the Sonographic Assessment of the Inferior Vena Cava
Published on: January 13, 2023
Confluence of the right internal iliac vein into a compressed left common iliac vein
Alberto Caggiati1, Miguel Amore2, Pietro Sedati3
1Department of Anatomy, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy alberto.caggiati@uniroma1.it.
Insights
This study identifies a rare vascular anomaly where the right internal iliac vein drains abnormally, potentially obstructing pelvic venous return. This anatomical variation occurs in 0.9% of individuals, impacting blood flow.
Area of Science:
- Vascular anatomy
- Pelvic venous system
- Radiological imaging
Background:
- Understanding pelvic venous drainage is crucial for diagnosing and treating vascular conditions.
- Anatomical variations in the iliac venous system can lead to significant clinical consequences.
Observation:
- The study details an abnormal confluence of the right internal iliac vein into the left common iliac vein.
- This anomaly is associated with compression of the left common iliac vein by the overlying right common iliac artery.
Findings:
- The combined prevalence of these specific venous and arterial abnormalities was found to be 0.9% in cadaveric and CT studies.
- This anatomical configuration may impede venous blood flow from the pelvis.
Implications:
- The identified vascular anomaly may contribute to pelvic venous congestion or other circulatory issues.
- Awareness of this rare condition is important for clinicians interpreting pelvic imaging and managing patients with suspected venous obstruction.
Abstract:
The authors describe the abnormal confluence of the right internal iliac vein into a left common iliac vein compressed by the overlying right common iliac artery. The prevalence of this combination of abnormalities, evaluated in cadavers and in living subjects by CT, was 0.9%. The possible obstacle to venous pelvic return by these anomalies is pointed out.
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