Cadaveric Study of Mode of Termination of Gonadal Veins: Implications for Procedures Utilizing Terminal Ends of Gonadal Veins as Entry Portals

CONTEXT The terminal ends of gonadal veins act as an entry portal in gonadal embolization procedures used for treating varicocele in males and pelvic congestion disease in females. Here, we studied the modes of termination of gonadal veins in adult cadavers. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-five adult formalin-fixed cadavers (seventy sides) were studied over a period of 4 years. The modes of termination of gonadal veins were observed under the following study variables: (a) number, (b) locale of termination, and (c) termination angle. RESULTS Variations in study parameters were observed in eight sides of seven cadavers (seven unilateral and one bilateral). Double veins at termination were observed in six cadavers; anomalous termination was observed in three cadavers. Angle of termination differed from normal in 3 cadavers. In one of these cadavers, the left ovarian vein drained into the left suprarenal vein. CONCLUSION Duplication of terminal ends, anomalous drainage site, and varied angles of termination call for caution to ensure the success of procedures, which use terminal ends of gonadal veins as entry portals.