IMAGE OF THE WEEK 2012

WEEK 28

 

Duplication of the IVC

 

 

Figure 1: Abdominal CT scan at the level of the kidneys showing two circular structures on either side of the slightly calcified aorta, which are both IVCs (White arrows).

(Click to enlarge picture)

Figure 2: Coronal plane of the abdomen on CT scan at the level of the IVC showing a duplicate IVC as indicated by the white arrows.

(Click to enlarge picture)

 

 

 

Various congenital variations of the inferior vena cava (IVC) have been described.  These include:

 

a.    Duplication of the IVC

b.    Azygous continuation of the IVC

c.    Left sided IVC

 

In duplication of the IVC, there are both left and right sided IVC’s inferior to the renal veins, lying either side of the abdominal aorta.  These continue on either side to inform the common iliac vein.  The left sided IVC usually ends at the level of the left renal vein.

 

Although not seen in this case there may be asymmetry in size between the two IVC’s.

 

Images and text contributed and prepared by

Dr Ian Bickle, Department of Radiology.

All images are copyrighted and property of RIPAS Hospital.

 

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