Persistence of left superior vena cava detected during cuffed dialysis catheter insertion.

We present a case where we demonstrate persistent left superior vena cava/left cardinal vein remnant discovered during left-sided cuffed catheter insertion for hemodialysis in a 65-year-old chronic kidney disease patient. Findings were confirmed with computed tomography venogram. This anomaly poses iatrogenic risks to the patient if not detected early. A catheter along the left mediastinal border can be dangerously close to descending aorta and could also be indicative of its placement in the internal thoracic vein or, pericardiophrenic vein. It can also perforate the persistent/remnant vessel and enter the pleura, pericardium, or mediastinum. This case emphasizes the importance of familiarity with this entity and its role in determining the appropriate venous access for patient therapy when faced with this clinical situation. PMID: 32394932 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Saudi Journal of Kidney Diseases and Transplantation - Category: Urology & Nephrology Authors: Tags: Saudi J Kidney Dis Transpl Source Type: research