Collateral veins in inferior caval vein occlusion demonstrated via CT.

CT-scans of 12 patients with tumour-induced occlusion of the inferior vena cava were studied with regard to collateral veins. A comparison was performed with findings at phlebography in 10 patients and at autopsy in 2. The site and appearance of the main collateral pathways are presented. A close study of vascular structures renders useful information on collateral circulation in occlusion of the inferior vena cava.