Information
Superior Vena Cava Obstruction (SVCO) is an obstructive emergency that may occur as the result of progression of a malignancy or may be the diagnostic symptom. SVCO is caused by external pressure, thrombus or direct tumour invasion causing obstruction of the superior vena cava and occurs in 3-8% of patients with cancer.
Most common symptoms are dyspnoea, headaches, chest pain, stridor, dilated anterior chest wall veins, swelling of the neck or face.
M.A, K.E & J.W. 12-2-26
Who to refer:
Patients who have a cancer diagnosis and symptoms or signs suggestive of SVCO.
Who not to refer:
If in doubt please do not hesitate to call. Patients may be referred to respiratory/interventional radiology at RIE but we are always happy to discuss.
How to refer:
Contact the Acute Oncology teamat the Edinburgh Cancer Centre on 07798774842 or 0131 537 1000 and ask to speak to Acute Oncology team for oncology.
All patients on or within six weeks of treatment should be encouraged to monitor symptoms and call The Cancer Treatment Helpline (CTH; 08009177711) with any treatment-related concerns. Please note, the CTH is a call operator service provided by NHS 24, who then refer on to an acute care specialist. They cannot give specialist advice.
If the patient has been assessed by a healthcare practitioner in Primary Care, and Oncology advice/input is felt to be required, the Primary Care clinician should call the Acute Oncology team at the Edinburgh Cancer Centre (based in the WGH) and discuss directly. The Acute Oncology team can be contacted during working hours (Mon-Fri 9-5) on 07798774842; If out of hours, please discuss with the Oncology Registrar On-Call via NHS Lothian Switchboard (0131 537 1000).
If the primary care clinician requires any further guidance on the suitability of referral to Acute Oncology, they can consult Pg 10 of the The UKONS Oncology/Haematology 24 Hour Triage Toolkit.
Note if a patient has presented to primary care for assessment, the patient should NOT be advised to call the CTH themselves to pass on this information or seek further advice.
Link to Acute Oncology Initial Management Guidelines:
UKONS | Acute Oncology Initial Management Guidelines (sundownsolutions.co.uk)
