Subclavian artery aneurysms

A rare subclavian artery aneurysm potentially misidentified as the internal jugular vein in ultrasound-guided central venous catheterization -a case report

BACKGROUND

Central venous catheterization by anesthesiologists carries risks such as accidental arterial puncture. This case report highlights a rare subclavian artery aneurysm (SAA) detected during ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein (IJV) access, emphasizing the importance of recognizing anatomical variations.

CASE

An 88-year-old female with hypertension and atrial fibrillation was scheduled for lumbar laminectomy and posterior fusion. Preoperative evaluation revealed right lower lobe atelectasis and mild aortic sclerosis. During ultrasonography for right IJV catheterization, two vessels of different diameters were observed on the common carotid artery's lateral side. The larger vessel disappeared at the upper neck level, showing arterial pulsation on Color Doppler. Postoperative neck computed tomography confirmed a right SAA and a 5-mm saccular aneurysm in the left intracranial artery. The patient had no vascular disease, trauma, or relevant family histories.

CONCLUSIONS

Anesthesiologists should be aware of anatomical variations during IJV catheterization. Ultrasound with Doppler is crucial for accurate artery identification.

Subclavian Artery Aneurysm Rupture: A Case Report

Subclavian artery aneurysm is an extremely rare condition with potentially life-threatening complications, including rupture and embolization. This condition is generally the result of atherosclerosis, medial degeneration, trauma, or infection. We report the case of an 83-year-old man who developed hemoptysis due to the rupture of a saccular aneurysm at the origin of the left subclavian artery. This case highlights the importance of early recognition and emergency management of subclavian artery aneurysms, which, despite their rarity, carry significant morbidity and mortality risks.

Large Right Subclavian Artery Aneurysm Presenting in a Young Patient

Subclavian artery aneurysms are extremely rare, accounting for less than 1% all of peripheral aneurysms. They are often due to atherosclerosis or thoracic outlet syndrome and present at an average age of 47 years. Here, we present an incidental finding of an 18 mm rapidly increasing aneurysm involving the first and second part of the right subclavian artery in a woman in her 20s. To our knowledge, this is the youngest patient presenting with a right subclavian artery aneurysm who underwent surgical resection of the aneurysm with repair using interposition graft and successful re-implantation of the vertebral artery with antegrade flow. This report highlights the multidisciplinary care between vascular, interventional radiology and cardiothoracic teams at our tertiary hospital due to the complex nature of the aneurysm.

Congenital right subclavian artery aneurysm resection in a 30-year-old woman

Right-sided subclavian artery aneurysms (SAAs) are exceedingly rare. The most common cause of intrathoracic SAAs is atherosclerosis; however, causes can also include infection, trauma, cystic medial degeneration, Marfan syndrome, and Takayasu arteritis. Symptoms present most commonly with compression of surrounding structures, although adverse events, including rupture, thrombosis, and embolization, can also occur. We present a case of a 30-year-old woman with an asymptomatic, 15-mm, right-sided SAA, which was successfully resected with subsequent end-to-end primary anastomosis.

Surgical Outcome of Proximal Isolated Subclavian Artery Aneurysms: A Single-Center Retrospective Observational Study

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to introduce our institutional experience of treatment strategies (cervical subclavian artery reconstruction, thoracotomy subclavian artery reconstruction and endovascular treatment) for proximal isolated subclavian artery aneurysms (PISAAs).

METHODS

we retrospectively analyzed 15 consecutive patients with PISAAs treated by different treatment strategies (cervical reconstruction, thoracotomy reconstruction and endovascular treatment) in our institution from May 2016 to May 2022. Baseline data, surgery-related data, postoperative information and long-term follow-up were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 17 PISAAs in 15 consecutive patients were treated in our institution. The success rates of subclavian artery reconstruction in the cervical reconstruction, the thoracotomy reconstruction and the endovascular treatment were 100%, 100 and 83.33%, respectively. About the involved vertebral artery, the reconstruction rates in the cervical reconstruction, the thoracotomy reconstruction, and the endovascular treatment were 80%, 75%, and 0, respectively. The intraoperative blood loss in the thoracotomy reconstruction was significantly higher than that in the cervical reconstruction and the endovascular treatment (p<0.05). The total operation time of the thoracotomy reconstruction was significantly longer than that of the cervical reconstruction and the endovascular treatment (p<0.05). In terms of postoperative ventilator use time, total postoperative drainage fluid, total postoperative drainage time, and ICU duration, both the thoracotomy reconstruction and the cervical reconstruction were significantly more than the endovascular treatment (p<0.05). During the follow-up, one patient in the endovascular treatment underwent re-intervention 22 months after surgery due to in-stent occlusion.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with PISAAs, different treatment strategies are recommended depending on the size of the aneurysms and whether the involved vertebral arteries require reconstruction.

CLINICAL IMPACT

This article is the largest study on the treatment strategies of PISAAs. By comparing the prognosis and complications of endovascular treatment with those of open surgery, it provides a certain reference basis for the choice of treatment for patients with PISAAs. For patients with aneurysms' diameter of >50 mm, the thoracotomy subclavian artery reconstruction is recommended; for patients with aneurysms' diameter of <30 mm requiring reconstruction of the involved vertebral arteries, the cervical subclavian artery reconstruction is recommended; for patients with aneurysms' diameter of <30 mm not requiring reconstruction of the involved vertebral arteries, the endovascular treatment is recommended.

Endovascular management of traumatic pseudoaneurysm of left subclavian artery: A case report

We present a case report of a 20-year-old male who suffered a stab injury to the left supraclavicular region, resulting in the formation of a pseudoaneurysm of the left subclavian artery. Initial endovascular management with a self-expandable covered stent graft showed promising results, but recurrence with proximal and distal end leaks necessitated further intervention. The patient's financial constraints delayed subsequent treatment, leading to worsening symptoms, including left upper limb paraparesis. Facing technical challenges due to the large size of the aneurysm and proximity to the vertebral artery, a vertebral artery confluence was performed, followed by a longer stent-graft placement to address the pseudoaneurysm successfully. This case highlights the potential advantages of endovascular approaches in complex subclavian artery injuries and emphasizes the importance of timely intervention to avoid complications and improve patient outcomes.

Operative repair of right intrathoracic subclavian artery aneurysms in patients with genetic arteriopathy

True intrathoracic subclavian artery aneurysms (SCAAs) are rare and have various etiologies. Right intrathoracic SCAAs pose specific anatomic challenges to repair. We present three different operative approaches, open, endovascular, and hybrid repair, for the repair of a right intrathoracic SCAA in three patients with genetic arteriopathy: Marfan syndrome, vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and unspecified Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, respectively. These cases demonstrate an individualized operative approach based on the genetic diagnosis for each patient presenting with a right intrathoracic SCAA.

Endovascular Repair of an Intrathoracic Subclavian Artery Aneurysm in a Patient With Dextrocardia

This manuscript describes an endovascular repair of a symptomatic, large proximal left subclavian artery aneurysm in a patient with dextrocardia and right-sided aortic arch and absent bilateral internal carotid arteries. The patient had surgical reconstruction as an infant for congenital heart disease with Ventricular Septal Defect, bifid sternum . Given her previous surgical history, we declined an open operation and performed an endovascular repair with stent grafts to successfully repair the subclavian artery aneurysm. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and follow-up ultrasonography demonstrated successful repair with preservation of flow through the left subclavian and vertebral arteries with resolution of her symptoms.

Long-term outcomes of endovascular treatment of isolated subclavian artery aneurysms

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to review our institutional experience of endovascular treatment for isolated subclavian artery aneurysms and evaluate the long-term outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients with isolated subclavian artery aneurysms who underwent endovascular treatment between March 2008 and March 2020 was performed. The demographics, aneurysmal characteristics, treatment strategies, and in-hospital and follow-up outcomes were recorded and then analyzed.

RESULTS

From March 2008 to March 2020, 35 isolated subclavian artery aneurysms were endovascularly treated at our institution. Atherosclerosis was the most common cause of aneurysms in this series. Most aneurysms were intrathoracic (91.4%) and located at the right side (77.1%). There were 26 true aneurysms, seven pseudoaneurysms, and two ruptured isolated subclavian artery aneurysms. Five types of endovascular strategies were performed. Covered stent placement across the aneurysm was the most (54.3%) commonly used method. Technical success was achieved in all patients. The median postoperative in-hospital stay was 4.0 days (range, 1-15 days). One patient died after discharge but within 30 days of surgery due to myocardial infarction. The median follow-up time was 62.0 months (range, 3-132 months). No death, stroke, stent fractures, or severe upper limb ischemia developed during the follow-up period. The cumulative survival rate at five years was 97.1%. The overall complication rate was 25.7% and one-third of complications (8.6%) required reinterventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular treatment for isolated subclavian artery aneurysms is safe, effective and technically achievable in most patients. Short- and long-term outcomes are promising. Reasonable and flexible use of covered stents can also get satisfactory outcomes in some complicated lesions such as isolated subclavian artery aneurysms located at the origin of the right subclavian artery, avoiding the huge surgical trauma caused by conventional open repair.

[Subclavian artery aneurysms: pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapeutic decision-making]

The article deals with the relevant literature data concerning diagnosis and treatment of subclavian artery aneurysms. This nosological entity is relatively uncommon, however its importance for modern medicine should not be underestimated. Despite a low incidence of the pathology, it should be understood that the disease's course for the patient is associated with the development of severe complications which may lead to disability or even death. The development of complications is extremely difficult to predict and stratification of risks for such patients is too complicated. It is also known that the diagnosis of a subclavian artery aneurysm is frequently an accidental finding, since the pathology may for a long time proceed symptom-free. At the same time, the subclavian artery occupies the first place by the frequency of localization of upper-limb aneurysms, thus making this problem currently important. Besides, separate attention should be paid to modern methods of correction of this disease, since implementation of high-tech interventions into vascular surgery have significantly expanded the arsenal of the operating surgeon.

[Sudden-onset monoplegia of the upper limb due to traumatic subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm after an interval of three days from tumbling]

A 66-year-old woman was admitted to our institution with sudden-onset weakness of her left upper limb. Neurological examination revealed monoplegia and sensory loss of the limb. A brain MRI did not find evidence of an acute ischemic stroke. Her medical history revealed that she had fallen and bruised her shoulder 3 days earlier. Detailed physiological examination revealed that there was a mild subcutaneous ecchymosis with tenderness in the left shoulder. An additional contrast-enhanced chest CT scan showed a fracture of the clavicle diaphysis and a pooling contrast agent demonstrating a 60*40 mm mass near the left subclavian artery (SUB-A) which suggested a pseudoaneurysm. We determined that her symptoms were due to compression of the brachial plexus by immediate growth of a traumatic SUB-A pseudoaneurysm (TSAP) due to her earlier fall. For reduction of pressure to the brachial plexus by the TSAP and prevention of rupture, an endovascular treatment team performed endovascular internal trapping of the left SUB-A just distal to the orifice of the left vertebral artery and a cardiovascular surgeon performed percutaneous drainage of the pseudoaneurysm. After the procedure, the palsy and sensory loss of the left hand gradually improved. A TSAP could be one of the causes of sudden-onset palsy of the upper limb within a few days after a fall.

Single center experience in the management of a case series of subclavian artery aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

Subclavian artery aneurysms (SAAs) are rare, but they may cause life- and limb-threatening complications.

METHODS

Retrospective review was performed of all SAA patients that underwent treatment at the Clinic for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade between January 1st 2006 and January 1st 2018. The paper includes analysis of etiology and therapeutic options based on the experience from our institution.

RESULTS

Twenty (80%) of SAAs involved extrathoracic (ET), while five (20%) intrathoracic (IT) segment. Out of total five IT SAAs, two were asymptomatic (40%), one had dyspnea (20%), while two (40%) had hematothorax due to rupture. Seven (35%) patients with ET SAA had shoulder pain and pulsatile mass, five (25%) acute, seven (35%) had chronic limb ischemia, while one was asymptomatic (5%). Two IT SAAs were treated with open surgery (OS). Other three cases underwent hybrid procedure. One case with ET SAA was treated endovascularly due to hostile anatomy, while in all other 19 cases of ET SAAs open repair was performed, which included: graft interposition in 10 (52.63%), end-to-end anastomosis in 7 (36.84%) cases, while bypass procedure in 2 (10.52%) patients. One of our patients (4%) died during the first 30 postoperative days.

CONCLUSIONS

SAAs are rare, however because of their natural history they have huge clinical significance. OS is the method of choice in cases of ET SAAs caused by TOS. Endovascular and hybrid treatment decrease significantly perioperative morbidity and mortality rates in cases of intrathoracic SAAs and thus should be the first option.

Endovascular Repair for Ruptured Axillary Artery Aneurysm Proximal to Hemodialysis Access

Axillary artery aneurysms are uncommon and potentially high-risk lesions threatening the upper extremities. In hemodialysis patients, arteriovenous fistulae creation rarely triggers aneurysmal degeneration and arterial aneurysms in inflow arteries. These aneurysms are usually treated by surgical repair. However, this may lead to complications because of the anatomical complexity surrounding aneurysms of axillary arteries. We report a patient undergoing hemodialysis who had a ruptured ipsilateral axillary artery aneurysm proximal to vascular access. We successfully treated it by endovascular repair with the GORE Excluder AAA contralateral leg endoprosthesis, approaching from the left brachial artery proximal to the shunt. No complications occurred during 15 months after the endovascular repair.

A case report of a ruptured subclavian artery aneurysm presenting to the emergency department

Subclavian artery aneurysms are uncommon and present a diagnostic dilemma. Our patient attended with life-threatening rupture, requiring prompt management. However, lack of on-site facilities and specialist input posed a logistical challenge. The patient was stable enough to allow an urgent transfer to a specialist unit for successful endovascular repair.

Interesting case of left subclavian pseudoaneurysm in a child managed successfully

Subclavian artery aneurysm is extremely rare, and further aneurysm in a 3-year-old child is more exceptional. Most common causes of subclavian artery aneurysms are atherosclerosis, poststenotic thoracic outlet syndrome, infectious, trauma, and inflammatory arteritis, and connective tissue disorders. Pseudoaneurysms may be due to trauma or any iatrogenic injury to subclavian artery. We present a case report of a 3-year-old male child presented to us with recurrent cough without expectoration for 4-months duration due to compression by a large subclavian artery aneurysm. Patient was successfully managed surgically through left thoracotomy approach. After operation, the patient improved symptomatically. Child was asymptomatic at 3-month follow-up.

Interventional repair of a vascular aneurysm in a patient with Marfan syndrome

Marfan syndrome is a heritable connective tissue disorder affecting skeletal, ocular and cardiovascular systems. Cardiovascular manifestations comprise aneurysmal dilatation of aortic root, aortic dissection and rupture; peripheral arterial aneurysms have been reported in femoral, iliac and subclavian arteries with surgical reconstruction as the first-line therapeutic option. We report a Marfan patient with a symptomatic aneurysm of left subclavian artery in the intrathoracic retro-clavicular space; instead of open surgical resection, an endovascular solution was successfully applied by use of a flexible self-expanding stent-graft (W.L Gore^® Viabahn^® Endoprosthesis 9 × 100 mm) to exclude the aneurysm. This case exemplifies a modern option to manage vascular pathology even in patients with Marfan syndrome. Follow-up over 1 year proved very reassuring with complete remodelling and resolution of the aneurysm; long-term follow-up is certainly warranted, considering the potential of recurrence or initial reactive hyperplasia.

Successful Balloon Assisted Percutaneous Thrombin Injection of Right Subclavian Artery Pseudoaneurysm

Purpose

To report the use of a balloon catheter to facilitate percutaneous ultrasound-guided thrombin injection of a subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm.

Case report

A 36-year-old man presented with hoarseness after the insertion of a right temporary internal jugular line. Arteriography showed a short neck right subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm. A 6 mm × 40 mm balloon catheter was positioned across the neck of the pseudoaneurysm to permit percutaneous ultrasound-guided thrombin injection. Immediate post-treatment angiogram demonstrated no filling of the pseudoaneurysm. Seven-month clinical and imaging follow-up confirmed resolution of the pseudoaneurysm and hoarseness.

Conclusions

This clinical vignette highlights the potential of balloon catheter-assisted percutaneous ultrasound-guided thrombin injection as an alternative to open or endovascular repair of pseudoaneurysms of the subclavian arteries.

Successful Treatment of Giant Left Subclavian Artery Pseudoaneurysm Abutting the Arch of the Aorta and Descending Aorta

A 28-year-old woman presented with 3-month history of fever of unknown origin and progressively increasing cough. She was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis on bronchial lavage cultures. A chest X-ray performed on follow-up showed a new opacity in the left apical area of the chest. Computed tomography scan of chest showed a large 10 cm pseudoaneurysm of the left subclavian artery 1 cm from its take off from the arch of the aorta. The pseudoaneurysm was approached through a left posterolateral thoracotomy and opened following a proximal and distal control. A 3 cm longitudinal defect was identified in the subclavian artery within its intrathoracic portion. This was debrided and repaired with an autologous pericardial patch. The patient had an uneventful recovery and remained well on follow-up.

Staged Hybrid Repair of an Intrathoracic Subclavian Artery Aneurysm Associated with a Long Segment Dissection

Intrathoracic subclavian artery aneurysms (ISAAs) are infrequently seen in clinical practice. We report the repair of a left ISAA associated with a long segment dissection from the ostia extending to the axillary artery. A hybrid approach was used. Carotid-to-axillary bypass using a reversed greater saphenous vein was first performed, followed by coverage of the origin of the subclavian artery using a thoracic stent graft. Finally, percutaneous access of the radial artery with coil embolization was performed to successfully thrombose the ISAA.

Interpretation of upper extremity arteriography: vascular anatomy and pathology [corrected]

Understanding the utility and interpretation of upper extremity angiography is critical for the hand surgeon treating vaso-occlusive diseases of the hand. Although invasive and requiring the use of contrast dye, it remains the gold standard for imaging of the vascular system of the upper extremity. Angiography may detect numerous variants of the upper limb arterial system which may contribute to surgical pathology. Extensive vascular collateralization helps to maintain perfusion to the hand and facilitates reconstruction of the upper extremity. It is paramount to remember that angiography is a dynamic study and should represent a "flexible roadmap" for surgical reconstruction.

Bilateral axillary arterial aneurysms in siblings with Marfan syndrome

Axillary arterial aneurysm associated with Marfan syndrome is an extremely rare and dangerous disease because of its potential risk for rupture and impairment of neurologic function in the upper extremities. Treatment of large axillary aneurysms can be surgically challenging because the axillary artery is anatomically located under the clavicle bones and the brachial plexus runs dorsal to the aneurysm. We report 2 cases of bilateral axillary arterial aneurysms in brothers with Marfan syndrome. Revival of a novel approach and cautious attempts during the procedures are described in both cases.

Subclavian and axillary arterial aneurysms: two case reports

Aneurysms of the subclavian-axillary segment are rare, but when diagnosed they must be treated. This article describes two cases of aneurysms of the upper extremities, one in a subclavian artery and the other in an axillary artery. The first case was a 71-year-old male with a pulsating supraclavicular bulge on the right and muscle weakness in the ipsilateral extremity. Duplex scanning and arteriography confirmed the diagnosis of aneurysm of the right subclavian artery and the patient underwent aneurysmectomy and end-to-end anastomosis. The second case was a 24-year-old female patient, with no history of comorbidities, who presented with a pulsating mass in the right axillary region and paresthesia of the ipsilateral extremity. Duplex scanning and arteriography confirmed an aneurysm in the right axillary artery, which was successfully treated with aneurysmectomy and end-to-end anastomosis. Pathology findings showed that the first case was an atherosclerotic aneurysm and the second was a congenital aneurysm.

Surgical treatment of aneurysms in the upper limbs

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to review the experience of aneurysms in the upper limbs treated with surgery and assess the outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study retrospectively reviewed the medical records of five patients with upper extremity aneurysms treated with surgical resection at Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital between March 2000 and February 2012. These patients were treated with excision surgery either with or without reconstructive surgery.

RESULTS

Two of the five patients were males and three were females with a mean age of 52 years (age range: 25-72 years). We treated 2 brachial, 2 ulnar, and 1 radial aneurysms. All aneurysms were excised, and two patients had reconstructive surgery. Three patients had false aneurysms, which included an ulnar artery aneurysm diagnosed as angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia. During follow-up period, all grafts were clinically patent, and no cases had recurrent lesions. No patients had ischemic symptoms or any other postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

Arterial aneurysms of the upper extremities are uncommon, and were most commonly caused by non-traumatic etiology in this series. These aneurysms were excised with or without reconstructive surgery, because of the fear of rupture and embolization. Revascularization can be performed selectively.

Supraclavicular approach for repair of an axillary artery pseudoaneurysm after axillobifemoral bypass

A 61-year-old woman underwent right axillobifemoral bypass using a reinforced expanded polytetrafluoroethylene T-shaped graft for high aortic occlusion. One year later, anastomotic pseudoaneurysm of the axillary artery was noted. We performed pseudoaneurysmectomy and graft interposition at the same anastomotic site through an infraclavicular approach. Unfortunately, the pseudoaneurysm recurred four months later. Therefore, we performed a second reoperation through a supraclavicular approach, in addition to the infraclavicular one. We were able to achieve better exposure from the axillary artery to the distal part of the subclavian artery, and reconstruct the bypass with secure and safe arterial clamping and reanastomosis.

Giant aneurysm of the right intra thoracic sub-clavian artery presenting as a dysphonia

Aneurysms of the intra-thoracic subclavian artery (SCA) are rare. They are often revealed by complications. Surgical treatment is always indicated. Endovascular treatment is a less invasive alternative. We report a case of a 60 years-old woman admitted for right chest pain and dysphonia. Laryngoscopy noted a right vocal cord palsy. Chest computed tomography and angiography showed a giant aneurysm of the intra-thoracic right SCA. A resection-ligation of the aneurysm was performed by a supra-clavicular approach. Postoperative course was uneventful. The histology defined an atherosclerotic aneurysm. The patient underwent voice reeducation with partial improvement after six months.

Subclavian artery aneurysms: management implications in a resource-limited setting

Subclavian artery (SA) aneurysms (SCAA) are relatively uncommon but carry a significant risk of rupture, thrombosis and embolism if left untreated. We describe the etiology, mode of presentation and outcome of surgical management of 10 patients presenting with SCAA between January 1990 and December 2010. The mean age was 43.7 years. There were seven men and three women. Five patients had aneurysms due to trauma, four had it due to thoracic outlet syndrome and one had it secondary to atherosclerosis. Five patients presented with ischemic symptoms of the distal upper extremity, while the rest presented with a pulsatile neck mass. All patients were treated surgically. Six patients were approached with combined supra- and infraclavicular incisions. Aneurysm resection with reconstruction using saphenous vein or synthetic grafts was done in eight patients. There was no perioperative mortality. The early patency rate was 100%. Surgical treatment is effective and recommended for most patients with SCAA.

A case of atherosclerotic aneurysm of the right subclavian artery with the right axillary arterial stenosis and enlargement of the ascending aorta

A 54-year-old man presented with neck pain and hoarseness. Angiography showed a rare right subclavian artery aneurysm, enlargement of the ascending aortic aneurysm, and axillary artery stenosis. These aneurysms would normally be treated with end-to-end anastomosis, but due to the complexity of the lesion in this case, we performed more extensive surgery. This consisted of successful reconstruction of the subclavian artery and replacement of the ascending aorta and aortic arch.

Giant pseudoaneurysm of right subclavian artery presenting with severe respiratory distress

Subclavian artery pseudoaneurysms are rare; and cases involving subclavian artery pseudoaneurysms presenting with compression on trachea leading to breathing difficulty are exceptional. We present a case report of huge subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm presenting with hoarseness of voice, respiratory distress, and aphonia. Patient was operated through median sternotomy, with the incision extended over the swelling. Aortic looping was done before opening the aneurysm. Rent in the right subclavian artery was identified and repaired. Because of the absence of a distal pulsation beyond the repaired site, we placed a reversed saphenous vein graft from the ascending aorta (end-to-side) to the right subclavian artery distal to repaired site (end-to-side). Good pulsation was achieved in the right brachial, right radial, and right ulnar arteries. Patient was extubated after 6 hours in stable condition.

Injuries of the thoracic aorta and its branches

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Aneurysms in the arteries of the upper extremity in a Kenyan population

BACKGROUND

Aneurysms in the arteries of the upper extremity are rare but important in predicting aortic aneurysms and their potential to thromboembolize and cause limb loss. Their localization, age, and gender distribution vary between countries depending on ethnic background and cause. These data are valuable in the management of aneurysms, but are largely lacking from the Kenyan population.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed at examining the pattern of these aneurysms in a Kenyan population.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective.

SETTING

Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Hospital records of aneurysms in upper limb arteries over 10 years from January 1998 to December 2007 were examined. Ethical approval was given by the Kenyatta National Hospital Ethics and Research Committee. Site, age, gender, and risk factors were recorded. Unconfirmed diagnoses were excluded. Results were analyzed using SPSS 11.50 and presented using tables.

RESULTS

Aneurysms of the upper extremity arteries comprise 34 (35.4%) out of 96 peripheral aneurysms. Of these, brachial artery was the most common site (35.3%), followed by brachiocephalic (11, 32.4%), subclavian (9, 26.5%), radial (1, 2.9%), and anterior interosseous (1, 2.9%). Trauma was the commonest predisposing factor (41.2%), followed by atherosclerosis and related comorbidities (32.4%), infection (11.8%), and autoimmune disease (8.8%). The mean age was 39.5 years (range: 13-79) with a variable gender distribution.

CONCLUSION

Aneurysms of the upper extremity arteries are not uncommon in the Kenyan population. They occur more commonly in individuals aged 50 years and less, and although most of them are traumatic, atherosclerosis constitutes a significant proportion. Prudent management of risk factors is recommended.

Idiopathic dissection from left subclavian artery to brachial artery: Spontaneous repair with conservative management

We report an unusual case of a 58-year-old female with idiopathic dissection of the left subclavian artery to the brachial artery which provoked vessel narrowing in the acute phase and was spontaneously repaired without surgical procedures in the chronic phase. We describe the serial imaging findings of the angiography and ultrasonography which demonstrate restoration of the dissection. In carefully selected patients, conservative management could be an alternative treatment to surgery or stenting with an excellent outcome.

Hybrid Open and Endovascular Therapy for a Proximal Subclavian Artery Aneurysm

A 57-year-old male presented with a large proximal right subclavian artery aneurysm that had been the source of upper extremity emboli on two occasions. A combined open and endovascular approach was undertaken involving a common carotid to vertebral artery autogenous bypass via a supraclavicular incision and endovascular repair of the aneurysm from a transbrachial approach. The patient did well postoperatively and recovered fully following a short hospitalization.

Tratamento endovascular híbrido de aneurisma da artéria subclávia associado à síndrome de Marfan: relato de caso

Descreve-se o caso de uma paciente feminina de 46 anos com síndrome de Marfan que foi diagnosticada com aneurisma da artéria subclávia direita após cirurgia aberta para reparo de dissecção aórtica tipo A. A paciente foi tratada por abordagem híbrida, que combinou o implante de uma endoprótese recoberta da artéria inominada para a carótida comum direita com uma ponte carótida para a artéria axilar direita. O pós-operatório transcorreu sem complicações, com a confirmação, por ultra-som, do sucesso da exclusão do aneurisma.

Combined surgery for the treatment of bilateral subclavian artery aneurysm in Marfan syndrome

Large bilateral aneurysm of the subclavian artery is an infrequent entity that can progress to thrombosis, embolization, or rupture if left untreated. Treatment consists of exclusion of the aneurysm by an endovascular procedure or open surgery. We present a case of large bilateral subclavian artery aneurysm in a patient with Marfan syndrome that was treated by a combination of endovascular and conventional surgery. This therapeutic approach provided good results for patency with lower morbidity and mortality.