Superior vena caval reconstruction using autologous pericardium.

Tumor involvement of the superior vena cava can occur either by direct extension of the primary tumor or by invasion of superior mediastinal lymph nodes. Removal of a portion of the caval wall may be required to allow adequate margins of resection. The technique described involves placement of an intraluminal shunt and resection of the involved caval wall with reconstruction using autologous pericardium.