Isolation of the subclavian artery is a rare aortic arch anomaly with fewer than 100 cases reported in the literature. Left subclavian artery isolation is seen in 0.8% of right aortic arches, and right subclavian artery isolation is seen four times less frequently. Other intracardiac or arch malformations are usually associated, among which tetralogy of Fallot is commonly described. We describe the presentation, preoperative imaging, surgical strategies, and outcomes of four patients with this rare condition and review the published literature. The embryological basis and interesting pathophysiology are also discussed. Surgical division and reimplantation of the isolated subclavian artery onto the aortic arch or common carotid artery is the treatment of choice, with good immediate and midterm outcomes.
Keywords: arch anomalies; isolated subclavian artery; pulmonary steal; subclavian steal; vertebrobasilar insufficiency.
© The Author(s) 2016.