Superior vena cava obstruction evaluation with MDCT.

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to review the CT findings associated with superior vena cava obstruction and to illustrate collateral venous pathways bypassing the obstruction as shown on MDCT. Multiple collateral venous pathways can form to bypass an obstruction of the superior vena cava. With its ability to acquire near isotropic data, MDCT allows high-quality reformations and thus exquisitely displays these venous collaterals and has the potential to aid in planning therapy to bypass the obstruction.