Complicated Evolution of Superior Vena Cava Syndrome Post Cardiac Surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is the clinical manifestation of superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction, with a severe reduction in venous backflow to the right atrium. Symptoms classically include neck, facial and upper limb swelling, development of swollen collateral veins on the front of the chest wall, shortness of breath, coughing, headache, stridor and other neurological complaints, which may all be exacerbated by different postures. CASE REPORT: A 31-year-old man, with a sinus venosus atrial septal defect (SVASD) and partial anomalous pulmonary venous return (PAPVC), was undergone to surgery, in the postoperative course showed a superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS). A second surgery to solve this complication was performed nevertheless, some days after this intervention, the patient developed SVCS symptom’s once again. A new strategy with a large stent implantation in the superior vena cava had acceptable results. The patient kept asymptomatic during four months. Discussion: This syndrome is a rare complication after cardiac surgery; it is associated mostly with bicaval cannulation; various causes such as localized hematoma, swollen absorbable hemostat, and narrowing of the SVC by surgical sutures have been reported. There are no exact guidelines for the clinical management of SVCS. The treatments include long-term anticoagulation, thrombolysis, percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty, stent implantation, and open surgical reconstruction. CONCLUSION: This article highlights the importance of bear in mind the potential risk of SVCS during cardiac surgery with bicaval cannulation, whereby the proper precautions must be taken into account. Another outstanding fact of this case report shows the value of working with interventional cardiology department as a team to reach successful results in the benefit of the patients.