Catheter for Hemodialysis in Persistent Left Superior Vena Cava in a Patient with Aortic Valve Endocarditis.

Abstract

Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is a common congenital venous anomaly, usually associated with other congenital heart diseases (12%). Its incidence in the general population is 0.5%. In cardiac surgery patients, it is suspected when using the left subclavian vein or left internal jugular vein for central venous catheter or hemodialysis catheter placement. Transthoracic ultrasound exam is useful in confirming the position of catheters in the venous system by injecting a 5% glucose solution that can be visualized in the right atrium after administration through the catheter. Hemodialysis catheters can be inserted in the PLSVC with good catheter function and no major risk in increase of complications.