Superior Vena Caval System Obstruction Caused by Benign Endothoracic Goiter

Abstract

The superior vena caval syndrome caused by a substernal thyroid is a rare occurrence. It can, however, result from external compression of the superior vena cava or innominate veins by an intrathoracic goiter. This report details such a case in which innominate vein occlusion was documented both by conventional venography and by a new technique utilizing a radionuclide (sodium pertechnetate ^p9mTc) and the scintillation camera.