[Aneurysm of the arteria lusoria. Case report and review of the literature]

Abstract

Aneurysms arising from an aberrant subclavian artery represent a seldom but dangerous condition, which can be treated successfully when appropriately diagnosed. From 37 patients described in the literature most presented a mediastinal mass and had symptoms like dysphagia, dyspnoe or chest pain. Diagnosis is today possible by contrast-enhanced computed tomography. The aneurysm should be resected to prevent lethal rupture. Left thoracotomy seems to be the appropriate approach in most cases. Reestablishment of blood flow to the right subclavian artery seems not necessary and may be done if ischemia develops in a second procedure by subclavian transposition to the common carotid artery. The case of a 74-year-old women who had resection of an aneurysm in an aberrant subclavian artery is described together with a review of the literature and discussion of the surgical management.