Persistent left superior vena cava: An anatomical variation

Area of Science:

• Anatomical Pathology
• Cardiovascular Anatomy
• Congenital Anomalies

Background:

• Persistent left superior vena cava (LSVC) is a congenital anomaly often associated with other cardiac defects.
• LSVC typically drains into the right atrium via the coronary sinus, usually without hemodynamic significance.
• Incidental findings of LSVC are crucial for medical professionals performing central venous access procedures.

Observation:

• A persistent LSVC was identified during a routine cadaveric dissection.
• Variations included an anterior cardiac vein joining the right marginal vein and a right septal pouch (RSP) near the fossa ovalis.
• The persistent LSVC drained into the right atrium via the coronary sinus.

Findings:

• The cadaver exhibited a persistent LSVC, an unusual anterior cardiac vein configuration, and a right septal pouch.
• The persistent LSVC drained normally into the right atrium, posing no apparent hemodynamic issue in this case.
• The right septal pouch, a rare finding, presents a potential site for thrombus formation.

Implications:

• Awareness of persistent LSVC is critical for surgeons, interventional nephrologists, and radiologists to prevent complications during central venous catheterization.
• Variations in cardiac venous drainage and septal structures necessitate careful pre-procedural assessment.
• This case contributes to understanding the embryology and clinical relevance of persistent LSVC and associated cardiac anomalies.