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Anomalous left brachiocephalic vein: spiral CT and angiographic findings
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Chinju, Korea.
Insights
An anomalous left brachiocephalic vein can be accurately diagnosed using spiral CT and CT angiography. This minimally invasive imaging technique is highly effective for identifying this vascular anomaly.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Vascular Anatomy
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Anomalous left brachiocephalic vein is a rare congenital vascular variation.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for surgical planning and avoiding complications.
Observation:
- Two cases of anomalous left brachiocephalic vein are presented.
- The anomalous vein coursed between the ascending aorta and trachea.
- It drained into the right superior vena cava below the azygos vein entrance.
Findings:
- Spiral CT and CT angiography precisely visualized the anomalous left brachiocephalic vein.
- The imaging findings confirmed the aberrant anatomical course.
Implications:
- Spiral CT and CT angiography are valuable, minimally invasive tools for diagnosing anomalous left brachiocephalic vein.
- Enhanced diagnostic capabilities aid in patient management and treatment strategies.
Objective:
To alert the radiologist to CT findings that suggest the correct diagnosis of anomalous left brachiocephalic vein.
Materials And Methods:
The authors report two cases of anomalous left brachiocephalic vein diagnosed by spiral CT and CT angiography.
Results:
Spiral CT accurately depicted an anomalous left brachiocephalic vein, which ran between the ascending aorta and the trachea within the mediastinum to reach the right superior vena cava just below the entrance of the azygos vein.
Conclusion:
Spiral CT combined with CT angiography is a very useful and minimally invasive technique in the diagnosis of this anomalous vein.