Read first the text book: Computed Tomography and Magnetic resonance of
the Thorax by Nadich et all
Then go through this exercise to assess your comprehension
1. Describe the course of azygous vein and relationships .
Answer
1. Describe the course of azygous vein and relationships .
- Azygous and hemiazygous veins represent continuation of ascending lumbar
veins into thorax.
- The azygous vein parallels the esophagus to the right and laterally is in
contact with pleural reflection of right lower lobe.
- Azygous vein defines the medial border of the azygo-esophageal recess.
- Azygous vein terminates into posterior aspect of SVC by arching over
RUL bronchus
2. What are the tributaries that drain into Azygous vein?
Answer
2. What are the tributaries that drain into Azygous vein?
- Lower intercostal veins drain into Azygous vein. Right superior intercostal vein drains into azygous just prior to formation
of arch.
- Second to fourth intercostal veins drain into right superior intercostal vein.
3. Describe the course of Hemiazygous vein and it relationships.
Answer
3. Describe the course of Hemiazygous vein and it relationships.
- The hemiazygous vein parallels the descending aorta posteriorly.
- Hemiazygous joins azygous at T8 by communicating vessels crossing mid line.
4. What are the tributaries that drain into Left Azygous vein?
Answer
4. What are the tributaries that drain into Left Azygous vein?
- Left lower intercostal veins.
- At the level of arch the accessory hemiazygous vein is joined by left
superior intercostal vein.
5. What is aortic nipple? What is the significance?
Answer
5. What is aortic nipple? What is the significance?
- Left superior intercostal vein arches anteriorly around the aortic arch and is
most often seen end on adjacent to aortic knob and is called aortic nipple. Can
be seen normally in 10% of normals.
- Prominent aortic nipple suggests SVC obstruction or absence of Azygous vein.
6. What is the significance of prominent azygous venous system?
Answer
6. What is the significance of prominent azygous venous system?
- Prominent azygous vein has to be distinguished from azygous node.
- Prominent azygous vein can be seen in
- CHF
- SVC obstruction
- Azygous
continuation of anomalous IVC
- Idiopathic
The session is over