Unusual pulmonary vein variations: A new case report and its clinical significance

Abstract

Anatomical variations in pulmonary circulation, especially in the number and drainage patterns of pulmonary veins, have significant clinical implications. The typical anatomy includes four pulmonary veins, which transport oxygenated blood to the left atrium through distinct ostia. However, variations have been reported in up to 36% of cases, a discovery facilitated by advances in imaging and cadaveric dissection. This study presents the anatomical findings of supernumerary pulmonary veins observed during routine thoracic dissection of a 75-year-old female cadaver. The implications of such variations are critical in cardiothoracic and pulmonary surgery, where unrecognized anatomical differences may lead to complications, including intraoperative bleeding and incomplete resections. Knowledge of these variations is also pivotal to radiological interpretation, as misinterpretation can lead to diagnostic errors. This study emphasizes the need for clinicians to be aware of pulmonary venous variability to enhance surgical planning, reduce procedural risks, and improve patient outcomes.