double inferior vena cava

Last reviewed 01/2018

A double inferior vena cava results from the failure of embryonic regression of the left sacrocardinal vein. It forms a persistent connection with the left subcardinal vein.

The left common iliac vein, formed from the anastomosis of the sacrocardinal veins, may or may not be present. The left gonadal vein remains as a tributary of the left subcardinal vein.