Sonology Demonstrates Flow Reversal Within Internal Jugular Vein Secondary to Occluded Innominate Vein and Stenotic Hemodialysis Arteriovenous Fistula

Abstract

This case illustrates a rare finding of flow reversal within the internal jugular vein associated with innominate occlusion and ipsilateral arteriovenous fistula. The patient was an adult male who presented with extreme pain and swelling of the left upper extremity and an ipsilateral nonfunctioning hemodialysis shunt. Doppler waveforms demonstrated turbulence and retrograde flow of the internal jugular vein (IJV). Sonography demonstrated complete occlusion of the left innominate vein. Angiography confirmed the IJV flow reversal and the full extent of the innominate vein clot. Angiography also showed bilateral indwelling innominate stents, as well as visualized the retrograde flow from the IJV crossing left to right via the transfer sinus and descending caudally to the right IJV. As demonstrated in this case, ultrasound works well in tandem with special procedures.

Keywords

ultrasound color flow pulse Doppler innominate vein jugular vein flow reversal

References

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