Accessory right inferior hepatic vein

Case contributed by Frank Gaillard
Diagnosis certain

Incidental note of an accessory right inferior hepatic vein draining directly into the inferior vena cava. 

Case Discussion

Variations in hepatic vascular anatomy are common. They may occur in the arterial, portal venous or hepatic venous systems. This is an important consideration in patients undergoing liver surgery, transplantation and radiological intervention.

The most common variation in the hepatic venous system is an accessory right inferior hepatic vein. It drains the posterior part of the right lobe (mainly segments 6 and 7) directly into the IVC. This venous pattern is present in ~ 48% of the population.

Credit: Dr Donna D'Souza.

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