A Left-sided Azygos Vein in a Cadaver: Anatomical and Surgical Considerations

Konstantinos Koutsouflianiotis1, George K Paraskevas1, Kalliopi Iliou1

  • 1Department of Anatomy and Surgical Anatomy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.

Cureus
|July 18, 2018
PubMed

Insights

This case report details a rare left-sided azygos vein, often associated with aging and thoracic vertebrae changes. Awareness of this anatomical variation is crucial for surgeons and radiologists.

Area of Science:

  • Anatomy
  • Radiology
  • Thoracic Surgery

Background:

  • The azygos vein is typically located on the right side of the vertebral column.
  • Scientific literature suggests variations in azygos vein positioning exist.
  • Potential causes for displacement include aging, crossover veins, and thoracic osteophytes.

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