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Transradial access (TRA) has become increasingly utilized in neurointerventions because it reduces access site complications. However, radial artery anomalies can be difficult to navigate, often necessitating conversion to femoral access. We describe the case of a female patient in her early 70s who underwent preoperative embolization of a carotid body tumor via right TRA. Her radial angiogram demonstrated the presence of a radial artery loop which was successfully navigated with a triaxial system but would not spontaneously reduce, even after the guide catheter was advanced into the subclavian artery. However, manual manipulation of the catheters in the antecubital fossa under direct fluoroscopic visualization reduced the loop, allowing the procedure to continue transradially. Although most radial loops can be traversed and reduced using standard techniques, this case demonstrates that manual reduction can be successful when other measures fail. We recommend attempting this method prior to converting the access site.

We present a 54-year-old Caucasian woman, who presented with acute symptomatic type B aortic dissection with deteriorating renal function. She was a known smoker with a 2-year history of dysphagia. CT angiography documented the artery of lusoria arising from the mid-thoracic aorta, aneurysmal dilation of her descending aorta, and kinetic and static flaps around her visceral ostia. The patient was managed by staged hybrid single lumen reconstruction and bilateral subclavian to carotid transpositions. During follow-up, there was no aortic rupture or retrograde type A dissection. There were no renal, visceral, cardiac, pulmonary or spinal complications. The patient went off her antihypertensive medication with a normal estimated glomerular filtration rate and accelerated aortic modulation.

Isolation of the left subclavian artery or its anomalous origin from the pulmonary artery has been documented in several cases, especially in association with a right-sided aortic arch. However, similar anomaly involving the right subclavian artery has been less frequently reported. Isolated right subclavian artery in association with interrupted aortic arch (IAA) is extremely rare, and only three cases have been reported so far. Here, we have presented yet another case of isolated right subclavian artery associated with ventricular septal defect, type B IAA and bilateral patent ductus arteriosus.

BACKGROUND: Duplex ultrasound (DU) is used in the diagnosis of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS) to measure compression of the subclavian artery (SCA) which is thought to strengthen the NTOS diagnosis. However, the value of DU in NTOS remains unclear.METHODS: A retrospective review of a prospectively acquired database from the TOS center of the Catharina Hospital Eindhoven was performed of patients referred between January 2017 and December 2019. Only "proven NTOS" patients, defined as a successful response to thoracic outlet decompression (TOD) surgery based on patient-reported outcomes (NRS pain scale, CBSQ and DASH score) were included to exclude wrongfully diagnosed NTOS patient. The presence of vascular symptoms (defined as discoloration, edema or temperature changes of the hand or fingers), results of provocative maneuvers, and outcome of DU was used for analysis. To assess the link between vascular symptoms and compression on DU, a chi-squared test was performed. Further, we looked for a correlation between vascular symptoms, compression on DU and clinical outcome using a repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA).RESULTS: Vascular symptoms were seen in 49 of 133 patients (36.8%). In total, 51 of 133 patients (38.3%) had at least 50% variation in SCA peak systolic velocity (PSV) during DU at the level of SCA stenosis. SCA occlusion was seen in 11 patients (8.3%) during provocative maneuvers. The presence of clinical "arterial symptoms" was not significantly correlated with vascular laboratory findings, neither for alterations in PSV during DU (P = 0.245) nor for positional SCA occlusion (P = 0.540). No statistically significant correlations between the degree of SCA stenosis and postoperative outcomes, as measured with the DASH, CBSQ, or NRS scale for pain were found (P = 0.787).CONCLUSIONS: The role of DU in the work-up of NTOS in patients with vascular complaints is questionable. Changes in flow velocities are seen in NTOS patients and do not correlate with "vascular symptoms" or clinical outcome.

Background: We describe a simple and novel technique for cerebral protection during left subclavian artery (SA) stenting by inflation of a balloon-guiding catheter inside the aortic arch at the SA origin. Methods: A total of 12 patients with left SA stenosis underwent SA stenting with inflation of a balloon-guiding catheter inside the aortic arch at the left SA origin between January 2020 and December 2020. The SA stenting procedures under proximal protection were retrospectively reviewed to assess ischemic complications, hyperintense spots on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), and flow direction of left vertebral artery (VA) during balloon-guiding catheter inflation using ultrasonography (US). Results: The success rate of the SA stenting procedure was 100% with no symptomatic ischemic complications. None of the 12 patients showed small hyperintense spots in DWI. In all patients, the left VA on US during balloon inflation showed retrograde blood flow. Conclusions: The left VA on US had retrograde blood flow during inflation of the balloon-guiding catheter inside the aortic arch at the SA origin. Therefore, the proximal balloon protection inside the aortic arch at the SA origin is a simple and maybe a safe technique for cerebral protection during SA stenting.

Subclavian artery aneurysms are rare peripheral artery aneurysms, and open surgical repair is the reference standard treatment. We have reported the case a patient with a right subclavian artery aneurysm who was not indicated for open surgical repair because of comorbidities. Thus, endovascular treatment using the Gore Excluder Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis (WL Gore and Associates, Flagstaff, Ariz) was performed, leading to complete aneurysmal exclusion without perioperative complications. Although anatomic limitations exist, this technique could be alternative treatment option for right subclavian artery aneurysms.

The Blalock–Taussig–Thomas Shunt (BTTS) procedure was first introduced by Alfred Blalock, Hellen B. Taussig, and Vivien Thomas in 1944. The procedure is performed by making a connection between the subclavian artery to the pulmonary artery to augment pulmonary blood flow. BTTS is used to palliate neonates born with restrictive pulmonary blood flow disorders (cyanotic congenital heart disease). The modified BTTS (MBTTS) procedure is still seen as high risk and has quite high morbidity and mortality rates, especially in the neonatal group. Recent studies suggest a mortality of up to 15% in the single ventricle group and 3% in the biventricular group. Based on a literature search, several risk factors such as patient weight, shunt size/body weight ratio, underlying cardiac malformations, use of mechanical ventilator support, sternotomy approach and use of CPB machines have been shown to increase mortality. Current perioperative risk assessment methods and recommendations are also covered. In addition, our review article specifically discusses perioperative strategies including strategies for surgeons using the MBTTS procedure (surgical approach, determining shunt size and anastomosis techniques) and postoperative strategies (anticoagulation management and strategy to deal with undershunting/overshunting problems). Resumen: El procedimiento de derivación de Blalock-Taussig-Thomas fue introducido por primera vez por Alfred Blalock, Hellen B. Taussig y Vivien Thomas en 1944. El procedimiento se realiza al hacer una conexión entre la arteria subclavia y la arteria pulmonar para aumentar el flujo sanguíneo pulmonar. El procedimiento de derivación de Blalock-Taussig-Thomas se utiliza para paliar a los recién nacidos que nacen con trastornos restrictivos del flujo sanguíneo pulmonar (cardiopatía congénita cianótica). El procedimiento MBTTS todavía se considera un procedimiento de alto riesgo y tiene tasas de morbilidad y mortalidad bastante altas, especialmente en el grupo neonatal. Estudios recientes sugieren que hay una mortalidad de hasta el 15% en el grupo de un solo ventrículo y del 3% en el grupo de anomalías cardíacas biventrículos. Según la búsqueda bibliográfica, se ha demostrado que varios factores de riesgo, como el peso del paciente, la relación tamaño de la derivación/peso corporal, malformaciones cardíacas subyacentes, uso de asistencia respiratoria mecánica, abordaje de esternotomía y uso de máquinas de CEC, aumentan la mortalidad. También se tratan los métodos y recomendaciones actuales de evaluación de riesgos perioperatorios. Además, nuestro artículo de revisión analiza específicamente las estrategias perioperatorias, incluidas las estrategias para los cirujanos en el procedimiento MBTTS (abordaje quirúrgico, determinación del tamaño de la derivación y técnicas de anastomosis) y las estrategias postoperatorias (manejo de anticoagulación y estrategia para lidiar con problemas de sobrecapacidad/sobrecadencia).

Background Resection of lung cancer infiltrating the aortic arch or the subclavian artery can be accomplished in selected patients with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Direct cross-clamping of the aortic arch and the left subclavian artery without CPB for radical resection of the tumor can be an alternative. This study presents one group’s experience with this technique. Methods Between October 2016 and May 2019, 9 patients (5 male, 4 female) underwent radical resection of lung cancer infiltrating the aortic arch (n = 5) or the left subclavian artery (n = 4) by direct cross-clamping technique at Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. Seven left upper lobectomies, 1 left pneumonectomy, and 1 left upper sleeve lobectomy were performed. Reconstruction of the aortic arch was performed by direct suturing or polyethylene terephthalate (Dacron) patch, whereas the subclavian artery was reconstructed with a Dacron conduit. Three patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Results Patients’ mean age was 64.7 ± 13.3 years (range, 36 to 78 years). Aortic arch resection was partial in all cases (adventitial in 1 and full thickness in 4); left subclavian artery resection was adventitial in 2 patients and circumferential in 2. All the resections were complete. Prosthetic reconstruction was performed in 4 cases. Mean operative time was 130 ± 25.6 minutes; mean vascular clamping time was 28.2 ± 3.2 minutes. No mortality occurred. The major complication rate was 11.1 %. At a mean follow-up of 17 ± 9 months (range, 5 to 29 months), the recurrence rate was 33.3%. Median survival was 20 months. Conclusions Direct cross-clamping as an alternative to CPB for resection of lung cancer infiltrating the aortic arch or the subclavian artery is a feasible, safe, and reliable procedure in selected patients.

OBJECTIVES Our goal was to evaluate the morphology of the aortic arch, focusing on the left subclavian artery (LSA), and to anticipate implications for single-branched endovascular aortic arch repair. METHODS We performed a morphological analysis of computed tomography angiography scans of 322 patients between January 2002 and December 2018. Arch type and distance between arch vessels on the convexity were evaluated. We defined 3 morphological types: U-type distance between the left common carotid artery (LCCA) and LSA offspring >10 mm; V-type distance between the LCCA and LSA offspring RESULTS Most patients presented a type III arch [50% (n = 161)]. The median distance from the brachiocephalic trunk offspring to the LCCA offspring measured 2.5 mm (2.0–3.0 mm) and that between the LCCA offspring and the LSA offspring was 6.5 mm (4.0–11.0 mm). We observed no significant difference based on the morphological type (V versus U versus W) in the brachiocephalic trunk–LCCA distance, but there were significant differences in the LCCA–LSA distance between types V and U (P CONCLUSIONS Our categorization of the U, V and W types of the LSA can help us anticipate shapes and distances and thereby function as an initial evaluation tool for predicting single branched endovascular aortic arch repair involving the LSA.

A 75-year-old man, who underwent inadvertent misplacement of pacemaker leads into the left coronary artery and left ventricle through the subclavian artery, was referred to our hospital. We safely performed percutaneous lead extraction in collaboration with surgeons and with the patient under general anesthesia. (Level of Difficulty: Advanced.), Central Illustration

BACKGROUND Iatrogenic aortic dissection (IAD) is a rare but fatal complication of interventional treatment for the proximal supra-aortic large vessels. Several cases of IAD after endovascular treatment of subclavian artery have been reported. Nevertheless, the pathogenesis of IAD is still unclear. Here we report a patient with IAD following a balloon expandable stent implanted into the left subclavian artery (LSA). CASE SUMMARY An 84-year-old man with a history of hypertension was admitted to the Neurology Department of our hospital complaining of dizziness and gait disturbance for more than 1 mo. Computed tomography angiography of the head and neck showed severe stenosis at the proximal LSA and the origin of the left vertebral artery. Magnetic resonance diffusion-weighted imaging of the brain revealed subacute infarctions in cerebellum, occipital lobe and medulla oblongata. He suffered a Stanford type B aortic dissection after the proximal LSA angioplasty with a balloon expandable stent. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair was performed immediately with the chimney technique and he was discharged 20 d later. After exploring the pathogenesis with multimodal imaging analysis, an easily neglected focal intramural hematoma (IMH) in the aorta near the junction of the LSA was found to be the main cause of the IAD. The risk of IAD should be sufficiently evaluated according to the characteristics of aortic arch lesions before the proximal LSA angioplasty. CONCLUSION Focal aortic IMH is a potential risk factor for IAD during a seemingly simple stenting of the proximal LSA.

Background Degenerative aortic arch aneurysms are known to develop through a pathological process of arterial atherosclerosis, which could be accompanied by peripheral artery diseases and resultant development of intrapelvic collateral arteries to the ischemic lower limbs. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between peripheral collateral circulation and postoperative paraplegia after total arch repair with a frozen elephant trunk in patients with degenerative aortic arch aneurysms and peripheral artery diseases. Methods Between October 2014 and March 2020, 27 patients (20 men; 69.8 ± 7.7 years old) underwent total arch repair with a frozen elephant trunk. Two of the 27 patients developed paraplegia postoperatively. The patients were divided into two groups, spinal cord ischemia (SCI) group (2 patients) and no-SCI group (25 patients). The aortic shagginess score, arterial calcification (subclavian artery; hypogastric artery) score, and the number of hypogastric artery branches, assessed using preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography images, were compared between the two groups. Results The ankle brachial artery pressure index (i.e., lower side value each patient) was lower in the SCI group than that in the no-SCI group (0.64, 0.71, and 1.09±0.07, respectively). There was no difference between the two groups in the arterial calcification scores or the aortic shagginess score. The number of hypogastric artery branches was greater in the SCI group than in the no-SCI group (66, 66, and 30.7±7.5, respectively). Conclusions Enhanced collateral circulation to the ischemic lower limbs in patients with combination of degenerative aortic arch aneurysms and peripheral artery diseases may be involved in paraplegia the upper thoracic spinal cord injury after total arch repair with a frozen elephant trunk.

Purpose: Acute thromboembolic disease of the innominate artery (IA) poses a unique set of therapeutic challenges, owing to its contribution to both the cerebral and upper extremity circulation, and risks of distal embolization via the carotid and subclavian arteries, respectively. Herein, we present a 74-year-old female who presents with acute IA thrombus treated successfully with right axillary and common carotid exposure and aspiration catheter-directed mechanical thrombectomy (CDT). Furthermore, an emerging use of CDT and its application in acute thromboembolism are outlined. Case report: A 74-year-old female with history of right lung transplant for pulmonary fibrosis with severe pulmonary hypertension, and stage IIIA left lung adenocarcinoma status post left lower lobectomy undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy presented with acute IA thrombus and right-sided stroke. She was treated successfully with right axillary and common carotid exposure and aspiration CDT. Computed tomography angiography performed 1 month postoperatively confirmed patent IA with no evidence of residual or recurrent thrombus. Conclusion: There are currently no standard guidelines on the management of acute IA thromboembolism, with mostly individual cases reported in the literature describing this rare entity. Nevertheless, this unique clinical entity mandates expeditious diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in order to avoid permanent neurologic deficits from distal embolization. Our case demonstrates that aspiration CDT may be an effective treatment modality for patients with acute IA thrombus.

OBJECTIVES Vascular rings are rare anomalies of congenital heart disease that cause respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms. This study assessed the long-term outcomes of patients with vascular ring division. METHODS A multi-institution retrospective review of 371 patients with vascular rings undergoing surgical division at 3 paediatric cardiac institutions between November 2007 and October 2019 was performed. RESULTS The complete vascular rings consisted of a double aortic arch (24.5%), right aortic arch with left ligamentum arteriosum (36.7%) and left aortic arch, with right ligamentum arteriosum (0.5%). The incomplete vascular rings consisted of a pulmonary artery sling (22.9%), left aortic arch with aberrant right subclavian artery (15.1%) and innominate artery compression syndrome (0.3%). Respiratory symptoms included stridor (71.4%), wheezing (49.1%), coughing (31.5%), gastrointestinal symptoms included choking (12.4%), dysphagia (3.2%) and emesis (1.9%). Only one patient died after discharge, yielding a late mortality rate of 0.3% (1/360). The 10-year overall survival rate was 96.8%. Postoperative complications were reported in 51 patients, 15 of whom required reoperation. The 10-year freedom from reoperation rate was 95.9%. Follow-up was completed in 95.4% (354/371) of patients, with a mean follow-up time of 4.3 ± 2.9 years (range from 1 to 13 years). Twenty patients (5.6%) experienced residual symptoms during long-term follow-up. CONCLUSIONS The outcomes of vascular ring division are excellent. A Kommerell diverticulum >1.5 times the aberrant left subclavian artery origin is an operative indication for primary resection. Tracheomalacia is a risk factor for reoperation and residual symptoms, and preoperative fibrobronchoscopy is important for evaluation.

Background. Central venous catheter represents an important tool in the management of critically ill patient. In this report, we described a COVID-19-positive case who had COVID-related complications and iatrogenic left subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm after central venous catheter insertion. Case Presentation. A 58-year-old male patient presented with a high-grade fever, myalgia, and shortness of breath due to COVID-19 infection. He required mechanical ventilation support and hemodialysis. He also developed uneventful deep vein thrombosis and myocardial infarction. As a complication of central line insertion, the patient developed pseudoaneurysm that originated from the subclavian artery with significant bleeding and large hematoma. Balloon-assisted percutaneous thrombin injection was done under ultrasound guidance. The patient was extubated 2 days later with no evidence of flow in the pseudoaneurysm. However, he lost movement in the left arm secondary to the compression of the brachial plexus from the pseudoaneurysm/hematoma, and therefore, 1.5 litres of the hematoma was evacuated in the operating room through a lateral left chest wall incision along the anterior axillary line to relieve the compression over the brachial plexus. The patient declined surgical reconstruction of the brachial plexus, and the flaccid paralysis of the arm did not recover during the follow-up. Conclusion. This is a case of unusual complications of COVID infection and iatrogenic left subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm postcentral vein cannulation. Balloon-assisted percutaneous thrombin injection for treatment of left subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm is feasible; however, delayed diagnosis could be associated with long-term or permanent disability.

Objectives This study investigated whether there was a relationship between steno-occlusion of the vertebral artery (VA) segments and the dominant VA side. Materials and methods Angiography results of 215 patients (146 men; 69 women) were retrospectively analyzed in this study. The patients were divided into three groups: dominant, non-dominant and co-dominant. These groups were compared according to the presence of steno-occlusion in the vertebral artery segments. The results were evaluatedusing X2, Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests. For correlation analysis, Spearman's Rho test was used. Results The findings showed that 55 of 215 patients (25.6%) had a right dominant VA, and 103 (47.9%) had left dominant VA. There was no significant relationship between dominance and age or gender (p > 0.05). More vertebral artery stenosis (VAS) was found on the dominant side. However, a significant relationship only in the right dominant V1 segment (p = 0.044) was noticed. Hypoplastic VA was detected in 13 patients (6%). Most of the VAs (98.4%, n = 423) arose from the subclavian artery. Conclusions In conclusion, we found more vertebral artery stenosis on the dominant side than the co-dominant side, especially on the origin of the vertebral arteries. However, it was only significant on the right dominant V1 segment, regardless of age and gender of the patients (p > 0.05).

Introduction The aetiology of subclavian artery stenosis can be very different, but typically the most common form is due to atherosclerotic disease. Interventional treatment is generally indicated for upper limb ischemia, vertebrobasilar symptoms and subclavian steal syndrome, coronary steal syndrome. Endovascular stenting is preferred over surgery because of its high success rate, less invasive nature, and minimal complication rate. In this study the characteristics of patients treated endovascularly due to subclavian artery stenosis in our centre and their procedural details will be examined. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients with subclavian artery stenosis treated by endovascular techniques in our centre between January 2019 and January 2021. Result Twelve (80%) of 15 patients with stenotic subclavian arteries were successfully treated with endovascular techniques. In 3 patients, the procedure was terminated with failure.The mean age of the patients was 64.66 years old and 3(20%) of the patients were female. All of the patients were receiving antihypertensive treatment with the diagnosis of hypertension, and 4 (26.66%) patients had Diabetes mellitus, 13 (86.66%) patients had hyperlipidemia, 13 (86.66%) patients had coronary artery disease. In 2 patients, the lesion was diagnosed in the right subclavian artery. In 7 patients, the procedure was performed with the telescopic method from a transfemoral approach. In 5 patients, the transradial approach was used. In 3 patients, the procedure was performed directly over the transbrachial approach. Balloon expandable stent implantation was performed in 10 (66.66%) patients at the end of the procedure, and self-expandable stent implantation was performed in 1 patient. Conclusion In conclusion, signs and symptoms can be managed effectively with endovascular techniques in patients with significant subclavian artery disease. In this study, we shared our real-life data on subclavian artery endovascular treatment.

Background: Cervical rib, though it is seen incidentally in the radiographic examination of chest and cervical spine, a particular subset of it can present with thoracic outlet syndrome. This article mainly focuses on the symptom causation of articulating cervical rib, as compared to non-articulating cervical rib which is often asymptomatic. There are many articles describing a cervical rib, but those highlighting this particular relation between the types of cervical rib and symptom causation are not present in present database. The review of serial radiographs upon correlating clinically, lead us to conclude that articulating variant of cervical rib is majorly symptomatic and caused grave arterial complications. The article consists brief discussions on the types of cervical ribs, thoracic outlet syndrome and role of imaging in diagnosing a cervical rib. Main Body: We have illustrated five such cases from our tertiary care hospital and highlighted the relationship between the magnitude of symptoms and variations of cervical rib. In compliance with PRISMA guidelines, we screened 33 articles dealing with cervical rib and 13 with thoracic outlet syndrome. Overall, 46 articles were filtered on studying the abstract. Further, 15 more had to be excluded as they were case reports and case series, and finally 31 articles were included in our study. We studied and discussed these articles and research papers in relation to variant anatomy of cervical rib, its types and symptom causation. In our study, also routine sequential chest radiographs were reviewed during the period of January 2020 to January 2021 and those with cervical rib and/or elongated C7 transverse process were included. Conclusion: Thus, to conclude we can state that articulating cervical ribs pose a greater threat and cause arterial occlusion. Key words: Cervical rib, thoracic outlet syndrome, subclavian artery.

Background Congenital aortic arch anomalies are commonly encountered during neurointerventional procedures. While some anomalies are identified at an early age, many are incidentally discovered later in adulthood during endovascular evaluations or interventions. Proper understanding of the normal arch anatomy and its variants is pivotal to safely navigate normal aortic arch branches and to negotiate the catheter through anomalies during neurointerventional procedures. This is particularly relevant in the increasingly “transradial first” culture of neurointerventional surgery. Moreover, some of these anomalies have a peculiar predilection for complications including aneurysm formation, dissection, and rupture during the procedure. Therefore, an understanding of these anomalies, their underlying embryological basis and associations, and pattern of circulation will help endovascular neurosurgeons and interventional radiologists navigate with confidence and consider relevant pathologic associations that may inform risk of cerebrovascular disease. Methods Here, we present a brief review of the basic embryology of the common anomalies of the aortic arch along with their neurological significances and discuss, through illustrative cases, the association of aortic arch anomalies with cerebral vascular pathology. Conclusions Understanding the aortic arch anomalies and its embryological basis is essential to safely navigate the cerebral vascular system during neurointerventional surgeries.

Background: The current study aims to determine the prevalence of variations of the aortic arch using computed tomography angiography (CTA), as well as morphometries and gender correlations. Materials and methods: A retrospective, transverse, observational and descriptive study of 220 CTA was performed. The branching pattern, most cranial vertebral level of the aortic arch, area of the proximal, middle and distal segments of the arch, area of each branch, and the path of atypical arteries were recorded. Results were analysed and stratified by gender. Results: The typical aortic arch branching pattern was present in 77.7% without statistical significance between genders. The most common variant was a two-branch pattern with a common trunk and a left subclavian (13.6%), followed by a typical branching pattern with an added left vertebral artery (7.3%). T3 was the most frequent cranial level (32.3%), followed by T2–T3 (26.8%), and T3–T4 (23.2%). The mean areas of the aortic arch were 685.5 ± 183.9, 476.1 ± 124.1, and 445.0 ± 145.1 mm2 for the proximal, middle and distal segments, with statistical difference between men and women in the middle and distal segments. Three paths of atypical arteries were identified: bifurcated vertebral artery (0.5%), aberrant right subclavian artery (0.5%), and left subclavian ostium obstruction (0.5%). Conclusions: Mexican population has one of the highest prevalence of variations in the aortic arch branching pattern. The high probability of finding these should be taken into consideration when assessing patients. A standardised classification method would contemplate future un-reported findings, without causing confusion by the different numbers assigned by each author.

In early embryogenesis, aortic anomalies occur as a consequence of disorders in the development of the primitive aortic arches system. Aberrant right subclavian artery, also known as arteria lusoria, is one of the important congenital anomalies of the aortic arch, in which the right subclavian artery arises from the arch of aorta instead of the brachiocephalic trunk. During routine dissection of a female cadaver, we observed retro-oesophageal aberrant right subclavian artery arising as the fourth branch from the aortic arch. In this case, the brachiocephalic trunk was absent. Early detection of aortic arch anomalies through diagnostic interventions is helpful to avoid complications during surgical procedures.

Objectives To describe clinical and imaging characteristics of an isolated subclavian artery (ISA) in pediatric patients. Background ISA is a rare congenital aortic arch anomaly defined as a loss of connection between the subclavian artery and aorta. The clinical manifestations and complications of ISA in children are unclear. Methods This retrospective study included clinical and imaging data of ISA patients younger than 18 years whose data were recorded in the electronic radiology database during January 2006–August 2019. Results Of 102 enrolled patients, 59 had been diagnosed in the first year of life. The majority of the patients also had congenital heart diseases, of which tetralogy of Fallot was the most common. The vertebral artery and collateral branch of the descending aorta served as blood flow supplies in 94 and 8 patients with ISA, respectively, as confirmed using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. However, the blood supply did not influence the development of ISA. Eleven patients exhibited mild or moderate stenosis of the ISA, although only two exhibited coldness or a blood pressure gradient in the upper extremities. These two symptomatic patients also presented with patent ductus arteriosus, and this association was significant (P = 0.008). Conclusion ISA management is often determined based on symptoms and associated congenital heart diseases. The ISA is prone to stenosis in patients with ipsilateral patent ductus arteriosus. We recommend early surgical ligation or percutaneous closure of the ductus arteriosus in patients with ISA.

Penetrating injuries to the subclavian artery carry a high mortality rate, especially when the patient presents in shock. Rapid and effective haemorrhage control is challenging due to the anatomical location at the thoracic outlet. Historically, vessel ligation has been used to control bleeding, but this is often performed late, when metabolic exhaustion is established, and is associated with upper-limb ischaemia and limb loss. Rapid proximal control through the chest with temporary intravascular shunting is the damage control technique of choice to temporise blood loss and restore perfusion until the patient is physiologically optimised for a delayed definitive vascular repair. We describe a case of vascular damage control in a patient after gunshot wound.

Subclavian artery aneurysms (SAAs) are rare, and their repair can be technically complex. We have reported the redo repair of a large, expanding, right SAA after primary repair consisting of total aortic arch replacement with bilateral subclavian artery ligation and bypass. The redo repair used claviculectomy to facilitate exposure, ligation of the right deep cervical and internal thoracic arteries from within the aneurysm sac, and revision of the previous axillary artery bypass that had thrombosed owing to the mass effect of the expanding SAA. Claviculectomy can facilitate repair of large SAAs that are poorly suited to more routine exposure approaches, with acceptable risk and functional outcomes.

Objective Isolated true subclavian artery aneurysm (SAA) without aberrant subclavian artery or coarctation of descending aorta is a rare peripheral aneurysm. Herein, the experience of our medical center in the treatment of this disease is presented. Methods The Division operative log was queried to identify cases of SAA repair between January 2012 and September 2019 that were not associated with coarctation of the aorta or the presence of an aberrant subclavian artery. A total of 22 cases were identified. The characteristics, treatment and clinical outcomes of these cases were assessed. Results The mean age of patients was 53.5 ± 14.3 years and 14 patients were male (63.6%). Half of the cases were attributed to atherosclerotic degeneration. The clinical symptoms of aneurysms were varied, including asymptomatic, pulsatile mass of supraclavicular fossa, local pain, upper limb embolism, Horner's syndrome and hoarseness. Aneurysms were located on the right in 17 cases, on the left in 3 cases and on both sides in 2 cases. Fifteen (68%) patients underwent an intervention, of which 11 (50%) underwent an open surgical repair, and 4 (18%) underwent endovascular repair. The mean diameter of the aneurysms was 39.5 ± 20.7 mm in the open surgery group, and 24.0 ± 4.7 mm in the endovascular group. The follow-up duration ranged from 2 months to 12 years. One patient died of cardiogenic disease in the untreated group. Patients undergoing open operative repair had 100% patency of the reconstruction. In the endovascular group, one patient had stent occlusion 2 years after the operation. Conclusions The most common cause of isolated subclavian aneurysm without aberrant subclavian artery or coarctation of descending aorta is atherosclerosis. The clinical symptoms of aneurysms are varied, and the aneurysms tend to occur on the right side. Based on the anatomical conditions of SAAs, open surgery and endovascular repair can be used for treatment.

We present a case of subclavian artery perforation with mediastinal hematoma following elective percutaneous coronary intervention. A conservative approach was preferred over invasive correction. Although no outcome data exist specifically for subclavian artery injury, registry data in patients with iatrogenic aortic dissection suggest that long-term outcomes are good without vascular repair. (Level of Difficulty: Advanced.), Central Illustration

Introduction: Left internal mammary artery (LIMA) grafts should be used in patients undergoing CABG. No other procedure results in patency equivalent to that of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD)–LIMA bypass graft. The CHA2DS2-Vasc-HS scoring system can be used to successfully predict CAD severity in stable CAD patients. We aimed to investigate the relationship between LIMA flow and the CHA2DS2-Vasc-HS score. Methods: A total of 684 patients, who underwent CABG surgery, were included in this study. Previous history of bypass surgery, emergency operations, patients with Leriche syndrome and patients with severe obstructive pulmonary and subclavian artery disease were excluded from our study. Patients with a LIMA flow that was suitable for bypass grafting, as determined during the intraoperative evaluation, were included in the low LIMA flow group, and the CHA2DS2-Vasc-HS score was calculated for all patients. Results: Patients in the low LIMA flow group (Group 1) were older. The CHA2DS2-Vasc-HS score (P < 0.001), presence of mild or moderate COPD (P = 0.022), number of severely diseased vessels (P = 0.036), and BMI (P < 0.001) were independent predictors of poor LIMA flow. The cutoff value of the CHA2DS2-VASc-HS score for the prediction of poor LIMA flow was >5.5, with a sensitivity of 92.9% and specificity of 83.4% (AUC: 0.938, 95% Cl: 0.906 – 0.970, P < 0.001). Conclusion: A preoperative high CHA2DS2-Vasc-HS score can be used to predict low intraoperative LIMA flow. The CHA2DS2-Vasc-HS score is an easy-to-use and reliable estimation method and can be used as an additional preoperative of LIMA flow in patients undergoing CABG due to severe CAD.

Background and aim of study The origin of the vertebral artery (VA) from the left subclavian (LSA) is variable and must be considered when proximal ligation or embolization is performed post thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and extra-anatomical bypass (EAB). A retrospective study was conducted to understand the patency of the LSA and VAs after TEVAR and the relationship of the EAB to the LSA. Methods Fifty-six patients underwent TEVAR where the LSA origin was occluded. A comparison was performed between the length of the proximal LSA from the arch of the aorta to the origin of the VA. Patient outcomes included posterior or anterior circulation cerebrovascular accident, spinal cord ischemia (SCI), and symptoms and signs of left arm ischemia (LAI). Thirty one underwent EAB with 8 undergoing occlusion of the LSA proximal to the origin of the left VA. A further 25 underwent TEVAR with no EAB performed. The mean (standard deviation) of origin of the VA from the origin at the arch was 37.0 (12.9) mm compared to 34.0 (13.7) mm in those where no bypass was performed (p 0.45). Four patients underwent intraluminal plug occlusion and four had external ligation of the proximal LSA in those undergoing EAB. Conclusions Careful evaluation of the LSA is needed when planning TEVAR as occlusion techniques may be dependent on a minimum length of the VA from the aortic arch. The mean length of the VA from the aorta has high heterogeneity which may dictate the optimum occlusion method for LSA.

The optimal approach for patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), who are contraindicated for a transfemoral (TF) approach, is still controversial. The present study aimed to evaluate the utility of the TAVR via a subclavian artery with a small diameter, by minimal incision and a double Z suture hemostasis technique using 18 Fr DrySeal Flex sheath, namely minimum-incision transsubclavian TAVR (MITS-TAVR), in patients contraindicated for the TF approach.We included consecutive patients who underwent the MITS-TAVR (MITS group; n = 21) and TF-TAVR (TF group; n = 81) using the CoreValve Evolut R/PRO valves and examined the incidence of in-hospital adverse events and post-discharge mortality between the two groups.The mean body surface area was significantly smaller in the MITS group (1.33 ± 0.04 vs. 1.43 ± 0.02 m2; p = 0.045). The minimal lumen diameter of the femoral artery was significantly smaller in the MITS group (5.01 vs. 6.43 mm; p 0.01). The lumen diameter of the left subclavian artery (LSA) in the MITS group was 4.97 ± 0.14 mm. The duration of the TAVR procedure to discharge was not significantly different (9.7 ± 2.0 days vs. 13.2 ± 1.0 days; p = 0.239). We did not experience in-hospital death in both groups, and no significant differences were observed in the incidence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events between the two groups. The post-discharge survival rate was not significantly different between the groups (at 2-year; MITS group vs. TF group = 91.0% vs. 89.0%; p = 0.725).The MITS-TAVR using 18 Fr Dryseal Flex sheath was safe and effective and might be a promising alternative approach even in patients with a small body and small LSA diameter, who are contraindicated to the TF approach.

The vascular involvement in patients with Behcet's disease is defined as vascular Behcet's disease, which can greatly influence the prognosis. However, there are few reports on endovascular treatment (EVT) for subclavian pseudoaneurysms with long-term prognosis over 10 years. We present the case of a 42-year-old man with left subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm due to vascular Behcet's disease who was treated with EVT along with immunosuppressive therapies. Subsequently, 8 years after, the aneurysm recurred in the stent with stent fracture. Therefore, additional EVT was performed. We present the details of the patient's clinical course over 10 years after the EVT.

Cervical ribs constitute the most important variants among ribs, particularly because of their proximity to the brachial plexus nerve network and subclavian artery. Thus, cervical ribs may exert excessive pressure upon these structures, producing a variety of symptoms that may be considered as a neuro-vascular complex. Cervical ribs are not uncommon in the catalogue of anatomic abnormalities in modern medicine, but few cases have been reported from historic skeletal material. We conducted a review with the existent articles published in palaeopathological literature, the historical background with the most important milestones regarding the studies on cervical ribs, the embryological processes in their development, and their prevalence and principal clinical features. Finally, we described a case of a cervical rib that was observed in the skeletal remains of a young individual from the late medieval cemetery of Corfinio (12th-13th century CE, Italy).

Subclavian and proximal axillary arterial injuries are rare and difficult to manage. Eight patients were managed from January 2008 to December 2018 at The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan with mean age of 36.13 ± 14.48 years. All patients had penetrating injuries, from gunshot in 5 (62.5%), bomb blast in 2 (25%), and stab wound in 1 (12.5%) case. Six (75%) patients presented in haemodynamically stable condition. The mean time between the injury and patient presentation was 28 ± 8.39 hours. The injuries were approached via supraclavicular incision in 3 (37.5%) patients, infraclavicular incisions in 2 (25%) patients and median sternotomy in 2 (25%) patients. Three (37.5%) patients had false aneurysm, while 5 (62.5%) had transected artery. Primary repair was performed in 2 (25%) cases, while 6 (75%) patients were treated with interposition graft with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). All patients have salvaged limbs with good functional outcomes. Key Words: Subclavian artery, Penetrating injury, Vascular trauma, Vascular repair.

La falla cardíaca avanzada es un importante problema de salud, siendo la única alternativa definitiva de manejo el trasplante cardíaco o los dispositivos de asistencia ventricular. El balón de contrapulsación intraaórtico por acceso femoral como puente a trasplante, que es aún de uso frecuente, tiene la desventaja de limitar la actividad del paciente, exponiéndolo a las complicaciones de la inmovilidad, lo que puede amenazar el éxito del procedimiento o, al menos, complicar la recuperación después del trasplante. El acceso por la arteria subclavia para el implante se ha convertido en una alternativa atractiva pues evita todas estas limitaciones del acceso femoral y hay evidencia que favorece su utilización como primera alternativa en este contexto. Presentamos los primeros casos de implante de balón de contrapulsación por vía subclavia en un centro de atención cardiovascular de alta complejidad en Colombia.

We describe a 17-year-old boy with capillary malformation-arteriovenous malformation syndrome and a massive vascular malformation of the right chest wall, shoulder, and upper arm. Persistent growth of the malformation caused cutaneous ulcerations and recurrent massive bleeding episodes. We proceeded with a modified shoulder disarticulation preceded by ligation of the subclavian artery and innominate vein by median sternotomy. After a staged debulking resection of the residual chest wall arteriovenous malformation with rotational transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap coverage, the patient was discharged home safely. This report demonstrates that a multidisciplinary approach is critical for management of life-threatening complications in capillary malformation-arteriovenous malformation patients.

Background: Posterolateral thoracotomy provides limited access to the thoracic apex that can result in poor visualization of subclavian vessels, their branches, and the brachial plexus. A thoracoscopic approach may overcome these limitations. Purpose: We report a thoracoscopic approach and associated technical challenges in resecting apical thoracic neuroblastoma encasing the subclavian artery. Methods: A single-institution retrospective chart review was performed (2018-2020) for patients undergoing thoracoscopic resection of apical neuroblastoma encasing the subclavian artery. Patient demographics, imaging, and hospital course were reviewed. Operative video recordings were assessed for exposure quality, technical challenges, and percentage of tumor resection. Patients were placed laterally, with three 5-mm ports triangulated to the apex. Dissection started at the tumor edge and followed along the vessel and branches. Results: Four patients (median age 2.7 years) underwent thoracoscopic apical neuroblastoma resection. Median length of stay was 2.5 days. One low-risk patient underwent resection for tumor growth during observation. One intermediate and 2 high-risk patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Two patients continued having persistent vascular encasement, whereas in 1 patient the mass decreased in size and only abutted the subclavian and vertebral arteries. In 1 patient, tumor involved the brachial plexus, which was freed and preserved thoracoscopically. All cases had substantial tumor-feeding vessels branching from the subclavian artery. There was one conversion to open thoracotomy due to dense tumor adherence to the subclavian artery and vein. More than 95% resection was achieved in all cases. All patients had baseline Horner syndrome. No complications were reported. Conclusion: The thoracoscopic approach for resecting apical neuroblastoma provides optimal exposure and safe access in selected patients.

Aberrant extracranial internal carotid artery and nonrecurrent laryngeal nerve (NRLN) are neurovascular anomalies, which clinicians should be aware of to prevent severe complications while performing transoral or open surgery in the head and neck area. These two variants can occur simultaneously because of similar etiology of embryological maldevelopment of arch arteries. In this study, a 64-year-old woman complaining of hoarseness presented a bulge in the left hypopharynx. A contrasted computed tomography scan indicated left thyroid mass with hypopharynx invasion, accompanied by right aberrant extracranial internal carotid artery and subclavian artery. Fine needle aspiration biopsy of the mass revealed papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). She underwent total thyroidectomy, partial hypopharyngectomy, neck dissection, and tracheotomy. Intraoperatively, a right NRLN was found above the level of the cricothyroid junction that entered the larynx. The patient did not present severe complications postoperatively. Radioactive iodine therapy was applied after the surgery. At the 3-year follow-up, she remained cancer-free, and the hoarseness has improved. This is the first report of concurrent aberrant extracranial internal carotid artery and NRLN. NRLN of right side can be predicted in the computed tomography scan by the sign of the right subclavian artery origining from the left side of the aortic arch and running an abnormal course between the esophagus and the vertebra. Meanwhile, aberrant extracranial internal carotid artery may occur simultaneously. Recognition of aberrant neurovascular structures enables clinicians to prevent severe surgical complications.

AIMS To define the prevalence, progression, and the relationship between carotid and subclavian artery atherosclerosis and to identify factors associated with disease progression in a population of asymptomatic patients. METHODS Among all consecutive patients without a history of cardiovascular disease admitted to our hospital for duplex ultrasound examinations of the supra-aortic arteries, from January to December 2012, we retrospectively identified 530 patients with two evaluations at least 3 years apart. Each artery was graded according to stenosis degree, as absent or less than 20%, 20-49%, 50-69%, 70-99% and total occlusion. Disease progression was defined for any class increase at any time interval. Patients were grouped according to the presence of a more than 20% stenosis of the supra-aortic district at baseline, as controls, without atherosclerosis: n = 111, 21%; isolated carotid artery disease: n = 390, 74%; concomitant subclavian artery-carotid artery disease: n = 29, 5%. There were no cases with isolated subclavian artery atherosclerosis. RESULTS The mean time-lapse between the two evaluations was 3.1 ± 0.3 years; we documented disease progression in 32 patients (6%), all limited to the carotid artery (P = 0.009 vs. controls, with no differences between isolated carotid artery disease and concomitant carotid and subclavian artery disease). Hypertension was significantly (P

Una masa pulsátil en el triángulo posterior del cuello puede inducir preocupación cuando crece y comienza a molestar. Se presenta caso de mujer joven, que consulta por dicho motivo, en la que se identifica una arteria subclavia verticalizada por coexistencia con costilla cervical. Al ser, por el momento, asintomática únicamente requirió una actitud preventiva, además de un seguimiento evolutivo ante la posibilidad del desarrollo de un cuadro compresivo por el síndrome del desfiladero torácico y/o un aneurisma arterial.

Poland's syndrome (PS) is a rare musculoskeletal congenital anomaly with a wide spectrum of presentations. It is typically characterized by hypoplasia or aplasia of pectoral muscles, mammary hypoplasia and variably associated ipsilateral limb anomalies. Limb defects can vary in severity, ranging from syndactyly to phocomelia. Most cases are sporadic but familial cases with intrafamilial variability have been reported. Several theories have been proposed regarding the genesis of PS. Vascular disruption theory, "the subclavian artery supply disruption sequence" (SASDS) remains the most accepted pathogenic mechanism. Clinical presentations can vary in severity from syndactyly to phocomelia in the limbs and in the thorax, rib defects to severe chest wall anomalies with impaired lung function. Most patients have subtle presentation at birth and milder forms in childhood. Functional limitations due to PS are usually minimal. Surgical treatment aims to improve pulmonary functions arising from severe thoracic deformities but is more often done to enhance the cosmesis. The use of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells and fat transfer have shown promising results in recent times for correction of chest defects and breast augmentation. Gaining deeper insights into the etiopathogenesis and clinical presentation of PS will improve the clinical recognition and management of this rare condition. In this review article, we aim to outline the details of this syndrome including its etiopathogenesis, evolution, spectrum of clinical manifestations, other systemic associations, diagnostic modalities, and recent advances in treatment.

The iatrogenic subclavian artery injury is a rare but potentially serious complication of subclavian vein cannulation. The use of endovascular techniques is an alternative to surgical repair especially in patients with concomitant diseases in whom immediate, potentially large surgery would be associated with a high risk of perioperative complications. This article discusses technical aspects of endovascular repair of iatrogenic injury of subclavian artery with implantation of covered stents based on two cases. Author’s experience and data from literature suggests that endovascular management including covered stent implantation is safe and effective treatment and should be considered as a method of choice especially among patients in poor general condition and/or major comorbidities.

BACKGROUND Aortic dissection is a rare but severe complication of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting (PTAS) for stenosis of the subclavian artery (SA). This retrospective study was designed to evaluate the risk factors and outcomes of patients with severe stenosis of the SA who underwent PTAS complicated by aortic dissection. METHODS Between 1999 and 2018, 169 cases of severe symptomatic stenosis of the SA underwent PTAS at our institute. Of them, six cases complicated by aortic dissection were included in this study. We evaluated the demographic features, technical factors of PTAS, and clinical outcomes in these six patients. RESULTS Aortic dissection occurred in 5.3% (6/113) of all left SA stenting cases but in none of the right SA stenting cases. All patients had hypertension and a high severity of SA stenosis (85.0 ± 13.0%, 60%-95%). Five of the six patients received balloon-expandable stents (83.3%). All patients had spontaneous resolution of the aortic dissection with conservative treatment. In a 63.33 ± 33.07 (7-118) month follow-up, five of the six patients (83.3%) had long-term symptom relief and stent patency. CONCLUSION Aortic dissection occurred in patients who underwent PTAS for severe stenosis of the left SA, mainly with balloon-expandable stents. We suggest using self-expandable stents and angioplasty with an undersized balloon during PTAS for severe stenosis of the left proximal SA to prevent aortic dissection.

A 54-year-old woman presented with an enlarging, pulsatile left neck mass and a history of Takayasu arteritis. She had seven prior cervical vascular reconstructions, including a prosthetic right-to-left carotid crossover, and left vertebral and subclavian bypasses done with saphenous vein. The skin of her neck was scarred and thin. The anastomotic pseudoaneurysms were resected, the left carotid bifurcation was reconstructed with the cryopreserved femoral artery because of the concern about wound healing, and the subclavian and vertebral vein grafts were reimplanted. Intraoperative management, clamp sites and sequence, manner of shunting, choice of conduit, and wound healing were important considerations.

Background Concomitant carotid endarterectomy (CEA; for severe internal carotid artery stenosis) with carotid-subclavian bypass grafting (CSBG; for proximal common carotid artery or subclavian artery occlusion) is rarely used. Only a few studies have been reported. This report analyzed early and late clinical outcomes of the largest study to date of the combined procedures in our institution. Methods Electronic medical records of patients who had concomitant CEA with CSBG during three decades were analyzed. Indications for surgery were arm ischemia, neurologic events, and clinical subclavian steal. Early (30 days) perioperative complications (stroke, death, and others) and late complications (stroke, death) were recorded. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate late graft/CEA primary patency, freedom from stroke, and stroke-free survival rates. Graft patency was determined clinically and confirmed using duplex ultrasound. Outcomes were compared with previously published data on isolated CSBG by the same group. Results There were 37 combined procedures analyzed. Mean age was 64 years (range, 45-81 years). Indications for surgery were arm ischemia in 12 (32%), hemispheric transient ischemic attack or stroke in 15 (41%), vertebrobasilar insufficiency in 4 (11%), symptomatic subclavian steal in 10 (27%), and asymptomatic common carotid artery occlusion with severe internal carotid artery stenosis in 6 (16%). The 30-day perioperative (stroke and death) rate was 5.4% (one stroke and one death). Immediate symptom relief was noted in 100%, with 2.7% (transient ischemic attack) symptom recurrence. The crude patency rate of both CEA and CSBG was 92%. At 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, 4 years, and 5 years, respectively, primary patency rates were 100%, 96%, 96%, 96%, and 85%; freedom from stroke rates were 97%, 97%, 97%, 97%, and 97%; and stroke-free survival rates were 94%, 94%, 87%, 82%, and 78%. When these outcomes were compared with the isolated CSBG group alone (28 patients), there was no difference in perioperative stroke (2.7% for concomitant CEA/CSBG vs 0% for isolated CSBG), perioperative death (2.7% vs 2.8%), or late patency rates (92% vs 96%). Conclusions Concomitant CEA/CSBG is safe and durable. There was no significant difference in perioperative stroke/death or late patency rates compared with isolated CSBG.

A retroesophageal aberrant brachiocephalic artery is a very rare congenital aortic arch anomaly. We herein presented a 29-year-old man with right aortic arch, retroesophageal aberrant left brachiocephalic artery, left ligamentum arteriosus, and absent left internal carotid artery. Graft replacement of the descending aorta and anatomical reconstruction of left brachiocephalic artery was successfully performed using a midline sternotomy approach without blood transfusion. We discuss the surgical management for Kommerell's diverticulum.

Severe stenosis of the innominate artery occurs rarely amongst supraaortic occlusive diseases. Patients with hemodynamically significant innominate artery disease may present with hemispheric symptoms such as transient ischemic attacks, amaurosis fugax, or subclavian steal secondary to retrograde flow through a non-dominant right vertebral artery in a right handed individual. Endovascular revascularization or extra-anatomic surgical bypass with prosthetic grafts are the most commonly used techniques for treating these lesions in high-risk patients. Carotid-carotid artery bypass procedure is a durable option in patients who are not candidates for endovascular repair, but like any prosthetic reconstruction it has the potential for graft infection especially in the retropharyngeal space. We present a patient with a subclavian steal syndrome secondary to innominate artery occlusion treated with a total autogenous extra-anatomic revascularization. Introduction Clinically significant occlusive disease is distinctly uncommon in the upper extremity circulation, but especially on the right side. However, when they do occur the innominate artery is most commonly affected. In such cases, blood flow to the arm is reconstituted by reversal of flow through the right vertebral artery, resulting in a steal physiology similar to that seen in patients with lesions of the left subclavian artery. However, in addition to the subclavian steal innominate artery disease also can manifest as atherothromboembolic events both to the hand and the brain. General indications for revascularization include strokes, transient ischemic attacks, and symptoms of vertebrobasilar insufficiency. Although quite rarely performed, in-line ascending aortic bypass grafting combined with endarterectomy may be preferred in patients with multivessel disease and low surgical risk. Extra- anatomic cervical revascularization is a good option in high-risk patients because of decreased morbidity and similar patency rates. Carotid-carotid bypass (CCB) via a retropharyngeal route is a well-described technique that provides a short and straight graft path behind the pharynx, precludes the need for a median sternotomy, and avoids the cosmetically unsightly subcutaneous appearance of a pre-tracheally tunneled graft.1 In the original report of the retropharyngeal tunneling by Berguer, one patient was treated with direct carotid-carotid reimplantation.2 Since then, there have been two case reports3, 4, and one case series5 describing carotid-carotid transposition for cervical debranching in patients undergoing thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR). In 2003 Czerny et al. described combined sequential autologous transposition of the left common carotid artery (LCCA) into the brachiocephalic trunk, and the left subclavian artery into the previously transposed LCCA for aneurysmal disease of the arch through a median sternotomy.6 In our report, we describe a combined sequential transposition of the arch vessels entirely through a cervical approach. Case report A 76-year-old woman presented with dizziness and vertigo. The patient underwent a duplex ultrasound demonstrating severe innominate artery stenosis with reversal of flow in the right vertebral artery. The patient's history was notable for multivessel coronary artery bypass grafting, aortic stenosis, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and acute right retinal artery occlusion six years prior. The patient was on dual antiplatelet therapy for stroke prevention. The right radial pulse was not palpable and there was a 45 mm Hg pressure gradient between upper extremities. A computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the neck and chest was obtained for case planning, and this actually showed a complete and densely calcified occlusion of the ostium of the innominate artery (Fig 1A). The patient was felt to be a poor candidate for endovascular treatment due to the CTA findings, and a direct transthoracic repair was deemed anatomically high risk due to her prior median sternotomy. Therefore, extra-anatomic revascularization was determined to be most appropriate. Operative Technique The right common carotid artery (RCCA) was exposed through a low, supraclavicular transverse cervical incision down to its origin from the innominate artery. This also afforded excellent exposure of the proximal segment of the right subclavian artery (RSCA). The LCCA was exposed through an oblique cervical incision along the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Both common carotid arteries were unusually redundant and tortuous and nearly entirety of their cervical course was circumferentially mobilized from the surrounding tissues to provide the necessary length for a tension- free anastomosis. The retropharyngeal tunnel was made with blunt dissection from both sides of the neck, following a plane posterior to the esophagus and anterior to the prevertebral fascia. After systemic heparinization, the distal RCCA was clamped distally, and ligated and transected proximally at its origin. The proximal end of the RCCA was then brought through the retropharyngeal tunnel and anastomosed end-to-side to the LCCA. Due to the brief duration of the clamp-time during the anastomosis, no shunt was used, and the mean arterial pressure was maintained greater than 90 mm Hg to maintain collateral cerebral perfusion. Download : Download high-res image (153KB) Download : Download full-size image Figure 1 . Three-dimensional computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the aortic arch vessels. A) Preoperative CTA demonstrating complete occlusion of the innominate artery origin (arrow) and redundant right common carotid artery (asterisk). B) Postoperative CTA demonstrating autogenous revascularization of the right common carotid artery and right subclavian artery via transposed retropharyngeal right common carotid artery (arrow) Next, the RSCA was further exposed through the transverse cervical incision. After division of the vertebral vein, the right vertebral artery (RVA) and RSCA just distal to the RVA origin were exposed. The RSCA was ligated and divided near the innominate bifurcation and clamped distal to the vertebral artery, which was controlled with a vessel loop. The proximal RSCA was directly anastomosed end-to- side to the previously transposed RCCA. The patient was discharged home on postoperative day two and is doing well on follow-up with complete resolution of her previous symptoms. Postoperative CTA at 6 months showed a widely patent right common carotid and subclavian artery tandem transpositions (Fig 1B). The right vertebral artery flow was now antegrade on follow-up duplex ultrasound. Discussion Carotid-carotid bypass is a well-described technique for revascularization of the innominate artery with excellent patency rates approaching 100% at three years.7 However, for retropharyngeal tunnels there is a small but real potential of graft contamination from contact between the prosthesis and the digestive tract with chance of erosion. 8 Transposing one of the carotid arteries to the contralateral artery is an alternative approach that avoids using a prosthetic graft in the retropharyngeal space. Furthermore, when anatomically feasible, performing the double transposition with transposition of the RSCA to the transposed RCCA avoids a bypass graft altogether and may have improved long-term patency compared to carotid-subclavian bypass.9 This technique has some limitations. Sufficient redundancy of the carotid arteries is required to enable mobilization and transposition in a tension-free manner, and therefore this approach can be applied only in selected cases. In conclusion, in select patients with innominate artery occlusive disease not amenable to endovascular repair a totally autogenous extra-anatomic revascularization is possible using carotid-carotid transposition and subclavian-carotid transposition provided these supraaortic branches have sufficient redundancy. This technique avoids a prosthetic graft in the retropharyngeal space, can potentially decrease the risk of infectious complications, and result in improved patency.

We present a case of an 11-year-old boy with a double-outlet right ventricle and a right-sided aortic arch showing anomalous origin of the left subclavian artery from the ascending aorta as the first branch. This case highlights the importance of knowledge of this aberrant anatomy before planning any surgical or endovascular intervention.

Scalenus syndrome is often diagnosed as thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). We performed literature searching reporting scalenus syndrome and we narratively describe the finding in this review. Scalenus syndrome is a unique clinical entity and commonly occurred. This syndrome can be classified into neurogenic TOS (nTOS) on the interscalene triangle, which also related to myofascial pain syndrome. There are three factors that contribute to scalenus syndrome, which are congenital anomaly, trauma, traumatic myositis, and hypertrophy of scalenus anterior muscle. The symptoms of scalenus syndrome can be divided into two types, which are neurologic and vascular symptoms. The neurologic manifestation can originate from the somatic and sympathetic nervous system. There is microscopic evidence of inflammation, hypertrophy, degeneration, and fibrosis of scalenus anterior muscle in scalenus syndrome cases. Scalenus syndrome can be treated surgically or conservatively. Non-surgical or conservative treatment can be applied to mild scalenus syndrome, especially nTOS, in the initial phase. Surgical management should be performed in persistent symptoms of nTOS or involving subclavian artery manifesting as arterial TOS (aTOS). Scalenus syndrome has quite similar clinical manifestation as nTOS and aTOS. However, this clinical syndrome should be considered as different entity because of different pathophysiology compared to TOS. Scalenus syndrome is caused by dynamic pathology of anterior scalenus muscle.