Saccular neck venous aneurysm on color duplex sonography: an analysis of 12 cases

Abstract 

Objective

To discuss the characteristics of saccular neck venous aneurysm on color duplex sonography.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 12 cases of saccular neck venous aneurysm confirmed by either venogram or surgical pathology. Clinical information, physical exam of the neck, and characteristics of saccular neck venous aneurysm on color Doppler sonography (CDUS) were analyzed. Diagnosis and differential diagnosis of saccular venous aneurysm on color duplex sonography were discussed.

Results

The communication between saccular venous aneurysm and related vein was visualized on grayscale imaging in 11 cases (11/12), which was observed in all 12 cases (12/12) on color Doppler image. Spectral Doppler was useful in the demonstration of venous flow in both the communicating vein and venous aneurysm. The documentation of venous flow in both venous aneurismal sac and communicating vein was obviously improved with contrast enhanced ultrasound in one case.

Conclusion

It is important to have knowledge of venous aneurysm, an uncommon condition in sonographic practice. Saccular venous aneurysm should be taken into consideration in differential diagnosis when a cystic lesion in the neck appears on color Doppler sonography.

Keywords: Color Doppler sonography, Jugular vein, Venous aneurysm