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Vena cava anomalies in thoracic surgery.

Andreina Pagini¹, Massimiliano Bassi², Daniele Diso¹

¹Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Organ Transplant "PARIDE STEFANINI", Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy.

Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery

|February 3, 2018

Summary

Preoperative identification of rare vena cava anomalies is crucial for thoracic surgeons. Recognizing these anatomical variations prevents potentially lethal complications during lung resection surgery.

Keywords:

Azygos continuation PAPVC PLSVC Thoracic surgery Vascular anomalies Vena cava

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Area of Science:

Cardiovascular anatomy
Thoracic surgery
Radiological imaging

Background:

Vena cava anomalies are rare developmental variations of the superior or inferior vena cava.
Often asymptomatic and incidentally diagnosed, typically alongside congenital heart disease.
Crucial for surgical planning to prevent severe complications.

Observation:

A case series of three patients undergoing lung resection presented with unidentified vena cava anomalies.
Two cases experienced minor intraoperative complications.
One case necessitated detailed intraoperative assessment due to the anomaly.

Findings:

Retrospective review of preoperative radiological images revealed the previously unrecognized vena cava anomalies.
The anomalies were not identified prior to the surgical procedures.
Complications arose in cases where anomalies were not recognized preoperatively.

Implications:

Mandatory preoperative evaluation of vena cava anatomy is essential for thoracic surgeons.
Accurate imaging interpretation can prevent intraoperative difficulties and patient harm.
Improved preoperative planning through vigilant radiological assessment enhances surgical safety.