Dynamic angio-MRI demonstration of persistent left superior vena cava in the absence of the right superior vena cava

Abstract

This condition is a rare anomaly. Combination with other congenital malformations including coarctation of the aorta, double aortic arc, transposition of great vessels and dextrocardia was reported. We performed an MRI evaluation. MRI was first obtained at cardiac level using a gated Black Blood and Cine technique, useful to confirm the enlarged coronary sinus, and then using a dynamic angiographic technique. By means of the latter modality, each frame was obtained in 5 s and was useful to demonstrate the contrast bolus through the venous, cardiac, pulmonary and systemic levels. It was possible to demonstrate the persistence of the left superior vena cava in the absence of the right superior vena cava.