Reversal of Blood Flow in the Internal Jugular Vein - A Case Series and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Objective The objectives of this study were to identify the causes of internal jugular vein (IJV) blood flow reversal revealed on ultrasound imaging. Methods In this retrospective review, 4796 upper extremity venous ultrasounds completed at a single institution between January 2012 and December 2017 were reviewed to identify cases of flow reversal in the IJV. Fourteen patients were identified with IJV flow reversal. Medical charts of these 14 patients were reviewed to identify the etiology of blood flow reversal. Results Intraluminal causes were the most common and were most frequently seen in patients with vascular damage secondary to placement of endovascular devices. Flow reversal most commonly occurred in the left IJV and was equally represented in men and women. Ages ranged from 41.38 to 82.76 years, with an average age of 61.92 years. Conclusion Reversal of flow in the IJV is a rare finding which is most often diagnosed on ultrasound evaluation of the upper extremity. Further investigation should be performed when flow reversal is identified, as the underlying cause may have serious clinical implications.