Thrombotic complications of venous aneurysms.

BACKGROUND

Venous aneurysms are rare vascular anomalies that have been reported to occur throughout the body. We report a unique variation, namely a thrombosed subclavian vein aneurysm.

METHODS

A review of the records of patients with documented venous aneurysms presenting to the St George Hospital and their associated imaging was made. A literature search for articles pertaining to venous aneurysms was performed.

RESULTS

Four cases of venous aneurysms were identified; one subclavian vein, one inferior vena cava and two popliteal. The clinical course of these cases is detailed, along with a review of the literature.

CONCLUSIONS

Venous aneurysms are infrequent findings and indicate that the patient is at significant risk of thrombosis. Popliteal vein aneurysms should be treated surgically.