Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome which is a condition usually secondary to intrathoracic malignant diseases is characterized by edema and congestion of the head, neck and upper limbs. Recently, SVC syndrome cases have been seen in hemodialysis patients due to the thrombosis and fibrosis induced by insertion of permanent subclavian or jugular venous catheters. A 21-year-old female patient who was dependent on dialysis for 11 years and underwent renal transplantation five months ago was admitted to our clinic with the signs of SVC syndrome. Thoracic computed tomography revealed total occlusion of SVC before its opening to the right atrium junction. The patient underwent venous drainage with Dacron graft interposition between the right atrium and SVC without establishing cardiopulmonary bypass. The patient had no complication in the early and late at 24 months postoperative period and renal allograft functions were well preserved. Surgical strategies avoiding cardiopulmonary bypass is an important factor for protection of renal allograft function in renal transplant patients.

Keywords : Central venous catheter; renal transplantation; superior vena cava syndrome