Left-sided high-flow arteriovenous hemodialysis fistula combined with a persistent left superior vena cava causing coronary sinus dilatation

Abstract

We present an interesting case illustrating the possible hemodynamic consequences when a left-sided arteriovenous hemodialysis fistula is combined with the congenital anomaly of a persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC). Our case illustrates the importance of an echocardiographic examination with attention to the coronary sinus (CS) caliber-raising suspicion of a PLSVC-in the assessment for the hemodialysis access in end-stage renal disease patients. The causes and symptoms of CS dilatation, as well as the literature on PLSVC, are also discussed in detail. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.