Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Image Acquisition Method for the Sonographic Assessment of the Inferior Vena Cava
Published on: January 13, 2023
Bilateral Absence of the Superior Vena Cava: Clinical Implications, Diagnostic Challenges, and Management
Babak Alavi Farzaneh1, Nastaran Masoomi2, Farzaneh Mohebi2
1Clinical Research Development Unit, Ayatollah Kashani Hospital, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
Background:
Bilateral absence of the superior vena cava (BASVC) is a rare congenital venous anomaly that is often under-recognized and may complicate both diagnostic and interventional procedures.
Clinical Context:
An illustrative pediatric case of BASVC presenting with gross hematuria is described to highlight the diagnostic challenges and potential hemodynamic implications of abnormal venous drainage.
Review Summary:
BASVC may remain asymptomatic or present with a wide range of nonspecific manifestations. Altered venous return and increased renal venous pressure may explain atypical presentations such as hematuria. Cross-sectional imaging plays a central role in diagnosis and procedural planning.
Future Directions:
Multicenter registries and long-term follow-up studies are needed to better define the natural history and optimal management strategies for patients with BASVC.
Take-Home Message:
Early recognition of BASVC is essential to prevent potentially life-threatening complications during vascular or cardiac procedures.
Related Concept Videos
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Veins of Thorax
The azygos vein, positioned just right of the midline and anterior to the vertebral column, begins at the junction of the right ascending lumbar and subcostal veins, terminating in the superior vena cava. This vein drains blood from the right side of the thoracic wall, thoracic viscera, and posterior abdominal wall.
The...
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...
Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Overview of Systemic Veins
The coronary sinus, the heart's principal vein, resides in the coronary sulcus on the heart's posterior aspect. This broad venous channel receives nearly all venous blood from the myocardium, the heart muscle. It is fed by three primary veins: the great cardiac vein, the middle...

