A rare presentation of the double inferior vena cava with an anomalous retrocaval right ureter: Embryogenesis and clinical implications

Abstract

On dissection of the abdomen of an adult male cadaver, in addition to the normal inferior vena cava on the right side, an unusual venous channel which connected the left renal vein with the left common iliac vein was found; (probably the left inferior vena cava). The left testicular and the left suprarenal veins were opening into the left renal vein as usual. Other than this, a retrocaval ureter was found on the right side. The works of previous authors have highlighted the incidence of a venacaval duplication and its surgical implications, but here, we are presenting a unique case of a double inferior vena cava with an anomalous retrocaval ureter. A conglo meration of such vascular malformations is of immense surgical importance, and it is indicative of a grossly defective angiogenesis. Keeping in mind the clinical relevance of the variations which were observed, an attempt was made to explain them in the light of the embryogenic development.