The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, Vol 53, 697-699, Copyright © 1992 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons
Intrapleural rupture of the azygos vein
RT Thurman and R Roettger
Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center, Lackland AFB, Texas 78236.
Intrapleural rupture of the azygos vein associated with hypovolemic shock
resulting from blunt chest trauma is reported. Management demanded an
emergency department right thoracotomy with venous ligation. Aortography to
rule out associated arterial injury was performed. The previously published
7 cases of azygos vein rupture are reviewed as are possible etiologic
mechanisms responsible for this rare injury. The history and clinical signs
compatible with this injury are emphasized.