Lisäkeuhkolaskimoita

Lisäkeuhkolaskimoita, known in English as accessory pulmonary veins, are a rare anatomical variation where veins connect to the pulmonary venous system in an atypical location. Instead of all pulmonary veins draining into the left atrium, one or more accessory veins may connect to other structures. These accessory veins can arise from different parts of the lungs or even other thoracic organs. The most common accessory pulmonary vein connects to the superior vena cava or the right atrium. In some cases, they can drain into the inferior vena cava or even the azygos vein.

The clinical significance of accessory pulmonary veins varies. Many individuals with this anomaly are asymptomatic and it is discovered incidentally during imaging studies or cardiac surgery. However, accessory pulmonary veins can sometimes be associated with congenital heart defects, such as atrial septal defects or anomalous pulmonary venous connection. In rare instances, they can lead to complications like pulmonary hypertension or venous congestion if they contribute to abnormal blood flow patterns. Diagnosis typically involves imaging techniques such as echocardiography, CT angiography, or MRI. Treatment is usually only necessary if symptoms or complications arise, and may involve surgical or interventional closure of the accessory vein.