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Open Access 01-12-2018 | Case report

Vena cava anomalies in thoracic surgery

Authors: Andreina Pagini, Massimiliano Bassi, Daniele Diso, Michele Anzidei, Sara Mantovani, Camilla Poggi, Federico Venuta, Marco Anile

Published in: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery | Issue 1/2018

Abstract

Background

Vena cava anomalies are a rare group of anatomical variations due to an incorrect development of the superior or inferior vena cava during fetal life. They generally show no clinical relevance and the diagnosis is done due to the association with congenital heart diseases in most of cases. However, preoperative identification of these anomalies is mandatory for surgeons to proper surgical planning. If not recognized, lethal complications may occur, as already reported in literature.

Case presentation

We report a case series of three different unidentified vena cava anomalies in patients undergoing lung resection. These unrecognized anomalies led to minor complications in two cases and required an accurate intraoperative evaluation in another.

A careful retrospective evaluation of preoperative radiological images showed the anomalies.

Conclusions

A careful evaluation of the vena cava anatomy at pre-operative imaging is mandatory for thoracic surgeons to properly plan the surgery and avoid complications.

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Title: Vena cava anomalies in thoracic surgery
Authors: Andreina Pagini
Massimiliano Bassi
Daniele Diso
Michele Anzidei
Sara Mantovani
Camilla Poggi
Federico Venuta
Marco Anile
Publication date: 01-12-2018
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery / Issue 1/2018
Electronic ISSN: 1749-8090
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13019-018-0704-y

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Vena cava anomalies in thoracic surgery

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusions

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