Left-sided duplication of inferior vena cava: clinical implications in a patient with sigmoid adenocarcinoma.

Double inferior vena cava is a rare congenital anomaly, usually detected by computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Although asymptomatic, it may have a clinical significance, as it may mimic a para-aortic lymphadenopaty. A case of left-sided duplication of the inferior vena cava in a patient with sigmoid colon cancer is presented. The diagnostic pitfalls and clinical implications are discussed. Accurate preoperative assessment of such an anatomical variant is of utmost importance, this way potentially life-threatening surgical complications, particularly when a minimally invasive approach is planned, are prevented.