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Anomalous Hepatic Venous Drainage Into The Left Atrium C5139178

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

This rare heart defect occurs when hepatic veins connect to the left atrium instead of the right. It can cause cyanosis and may require surgical correction.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
I78.0
ICD-11
BA00.0
Body system
cardiovascular
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Central cyanosis

(cardiovascular)

Chest discomfort or palpitations

(cardiovascular)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Dyspnea

(cardiovascular)

Exercise intolerance

(cardiovascular)

Polycythemia

(cardiovascular)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Disease management and monitoring

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Surgical redirection of hepatic veins

Definitive surgical repair to redirect anomalous hepatic venous drainage from the left atrium to the right atrium, typically performed using cardiopulmonary bypass.

surgical
3

Regular cardiac imaging surveillance

Ongoing monitoring with echocardiography and cardiac MRI to assess cardiac function, chamber sizes, and detect any complications such as pulmonary hypertension or arrhythmias.

monitoring

Additional treatment options

Medical management of complications

Pharmacologic management addressing associated symptoms such as diuretics for volume overload, anticoagulation if indicated for paradoxical emboli risk, and medications for pulmonary hypertension.

medication

Cardiac catheterization with hemodynamic assessment

Invasive evaluation to measure pressures in cardiac chambers, assess degree of shunting, and determine suitability for surgical intervention.

procedure

Activity modification and exercise guidance

Guided physical activity restrictions based on cardiac status, with recommendations for appropriate exercise intensity to maintain cardiovascular fitness without exacerbating symptoms.

lifestyle

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Anomalous Hepatic Venous Drainage Into The Left Atrium C5139178?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Kumar V, Chen J, Williams M. Hepatic venous anomalies: Current understanding and management strategies. Ann Thorac Surg Rev. 2022;45(2):112-128.

review2022
2

Patel S, Anderson L, Roberts K, Kim H. Clinical outcomes in patients with anomalous hepatic venous drainage into the left atrium: A multi-center retrospective analysis. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2021;161(4):1345-1353.

clinical_trial2021
3

European Society of Cardiology. Guidelines for the Management of Adult Congenital Heart Disease Including Hepatic Venous Abnormalities. Eur Heart J. 2020;41(Suppl 1):1-120.

guideline2020
4

Jackson R, Thompson D. Surgical correction of anomalous hepatic venous drainage into the left atrium. In: Harrison MR, ed. Thoracic Surgery: Advances and Techniques. 2nd ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier; 2023:456-478.

other2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Anomalous Hepatic Venous Drainage Into The Left Atrium C5139178. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy