Four-Dimensional Echocardiography Is an Accurate Tool for Coronary Sinus Evaluation in Patients with Persistent Left Superior Vena Cava Diagnosis

Abstract

Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is a rare vascular congenital anomaly yet the most common for the thoracic venous system. Usually asymptomatic, PLSVC is commonly diagnosed when echocardiography or other cardiovascular imaging is performed. Due to venous drainage abnormality, PLSVC is frequently associated with other anomalies of the intrinsic heart’s conduction system, leading to tachy- or brady- arrhythmias. We present the case of a patient with 20 years history of supraventricular rhythm disorders diagnosed with isolated PLSVC. Furthermore, we discuss the diagnostic approach providing insights into four-dimensional echocardiography (4DE) evaluation for PLSVC diagnosis, assuming that there is a direct correlation between coronary sinus dilatation caused by abnormal venous return and supraventricular rhythm disorders. We highlight that correct understanding of the pathophysiology of PLSVC will lead to a reduction in unnecessary and potentially harmful testing, to a shorter diagnostic time and to a financial resource saving, as a whole.