Vena cava anomalies in thoracic surgery
Background: Vena cava anomalies are a rare group of anatomical variations due to an incorrect development of the
superior or inferior vena cava during fetal life. They generally show no clinical relevance and the diagnosis is done due
to the association with congenital heart diseases in most of cases. However, preoperative identification of these anomalies
is mandatory for surgeons to proper surgical planning. If not recognized, lethal complications may occur, as already reported
in literature.