Management of inferior vena cava aneurysm

J Cardiovasc Surg (Torino). 2015 Oct;56(5):769-74.

Abstract

Aim: Inferior vena cava (IVC) aneurysm is an infrequent but potentially lethal abnormality. We have seen one such case in our group practice. We have added this case to a review of 53 previously reported cases in order to develop a management algorithm for this entity.

Methods: We conducted a MedLine search of all English-language articles from the first reported case in 1950 through August 2013. Patient demographics, clinical data, management and outcomes were extracted. IVC aneurysms were categorized in 4 types as per Gradman and Steinberg classification.

Results: The mean patient age was 27.1 years (range 5-89) and 57.4% were male. A total of 11 (20.3%) had associated vascular anomalies and iliocaval thrombosis was found in 10 (18.5%). There were 23 type I aneurysms, 8 type IIs, 21 type IIIs and 2 type IVs. All but 1 type I was successfully managed conservatively without complications. For type IIs, only 3 patients were managed conservatively with 1 death related to stroke from paradoxical embolus. For type IIIs, resection was the most common management option (14 patients). One patient was treated endovascularly with aneurysm embolization. A total of 6 asymptomatic patients were treated conservatively with 1 death due to thromboembolism. For type IVs, all cases underwent expectant management with 1 death due to aneurysm rupture.

Conclusion: IVC aneurysms are rare with only 54 cases reported in the literature. Associated vascular anomalies and iliocaval thrombosis should be expected in approximately 20% of cases. Type I aneurysms can be managed expectantly with close surveillance unless symptomatic. For type II-IV, surgical consideration should be given based on high rates of thromboembolic complications and non-negligible risk of rupture.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aneurysm / classification
  • Aneurysm / diagnosis
  • Aneurysm / mortality
  • Aneurysm / surgery
  • Aneurysm / therapy*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Endovascular Procedures* / adverse effects
  • Endovascular Procedures* / mortality
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Risk Factors
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vascular Surgical Procedures* / adverse effects
  • Vascular Surgical Procedures* / mortality
  • Vena Cava, Inferior / surgery*
  • Young Adult