A Rare Anatomical Venous Variant in the Lower Extremity

Area of Science:

• Vascular Anatomy
• Venous Thromboembolism
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a significant clinical concern, often influenced by patient-specific factors.
• Malignancy is a known risk factor for hypercoagulable states, increasing DVT incidence.
• Anatomical variations in the venous system can impact blood flow and thrombotic risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a rare venous anatomical variant identified in a patient with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and lung cancer.
• To investigate the potential role of this anatomical variant in the pathogenesis of DVT within a hypercoagulable state.
• To emphasize the clinical significance of recognizing venous anatomical variants for accurate DVT diagnosis and management.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 68-year-old male patient.
• Utilized color duplex ultrasonography for detailed venous system visualization.
• Focused on the popliteal and femoral venous structures.

Main Results:

• Identified a rare venous variant: direct drainage of the popliteal vein into the common femoral vein.
• Observed the complete absence of the superficial femoral vein.
• The patient had a history of lung cancer, a hypercoagulable condition.

Conclusions:

• This previously undescribed venous anatomical variant may predispose individuals to thrombogenesis, particularly in the context of malignancy.
• Accurate identification of such venous anomalies is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment strategies for deep vein thrombosis.
• Awareness of rare venous variations improves clinical decision-making in patients presenting with DVT.