Join the EMGuideWire team as they discuss
Superior Vena Cava Syndrome!
Shownotes:
Definition:
Any condition leading to obstruction of blood flow through the
SVC
Pathophysiology:
Pathology in adjacent anatomy (lung, lymph node, thymus,
mediastinum) or within the SVC itself obstructs venous return to
the right atrium. As the SVC is compressed, venous collaterals form
alternative pathways returning blood to the right atrium which can
dilate over several weeks. As a result, upper body venous pressure
increases, which in extreme cases lead to airway congestion and
venous cerebrovascular congestion and edema. Hemomdynamic
compromise is most often by direct compression of the heart, not
from SVC obstruction.
Risk factors:
Indwelling device through the SVC (Central line, dialysis
catheter, pacemaker)
Join the faculty and residents of Carolinas Emergency Medicine Residency Program, one of the oldest programs in the country, as they explore some of the Core Concepts of Emergency Medicine as well as many of the niche environments of this important arena of specialty care.