DOI: 10.12890/2025_005441

The azygos vein as an alternative route for haemodialysis catheterisation

Authors

  • Vladimir Pushevski University Clinic of Nephrology, Medical Faculty, SS Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia
  • Filip Janusevski University Clinic of Cardiology, Medical Faculty, SS Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia
  • Zoran Janevski University Clinic of Nephrology, Medical Faculty, SS Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia
  • Petar Dejanov University Clinic of Nephrology, Medical Faculty, SS Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia

pushev@yahoo.com

Keywords

Vascular access creation, superior vena cava stenosis, azygos vein

Abstract

Introduction: Central venous catheterisation (CVC) is essential for haemodialysis in end-stage kidney disease, but superior vena cava (SVC) stenosis or occlusion often complicates long-term access. The azygos vein, a collateral drainage pathway, has been rarely used intentionally for catheterisation.
Case description: We report on a 68-year-old male on haemodialysis with SVC perforation and stenosis due to prolonged catheter use. After a failed guidewire-assisted exchange, a non-tunnelled CVC was successfully placed in the enlarged azygos vein under fluoroscopy. The patient continued haemodialysis without complications, and the two-month follow-up confirmed catheter patency.
Conclusion: This case demonstrates the azygos vein as a viable alternative for haemodialysis access in SVC stenosis.

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References

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Published

2025-05-20

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 6 (2025)

Categories

How to Cite

1.
Pushevski V, Janusevski F, Janevski Z, Dejanov P. The azygos vein as an alternative route for haemodialysis catheterisation. EJCRIM [Internet]. 2025 May 20 [cited 2026 Nov. 3];12(6). Available from: https://ejcrim.com/index.php/ejcrim/article/view/5441