[Sonographic vascular analysis in segmental aplasia-hypoplasia of the inferior vena cava]

The absence or hypoplasia of the hepatic segment of the inferior vena cava with azygos continuation is a rare entity, sometimes associated with congenital heart disease, situs inversus or polysplenia syndrome. Ultrasonography as an easy, non-invasive procedure enables reliable diagnosis of this anomaly replacing inferior cavography. Ultrasonic scans performed in various directions allow a more subtle analysis of vessels and location of azygos continuation. We present an analysis of the sonographic feature in this anomaly, as studied in 2 patients. The diagnosis of this usually incidental finding (chest X-ray) can be of major clinical importance e.g. if special surgical procedures such as ligature of the azygos vein are considered.