The retroesophageal subclavian artery--a case report and review

Abstract

In an 80-year-old Japanese male cadaver, the right subclavian artery originated from the aortic arch distal to the origin of the left subclavian artery, i.e., it was the last branch of the aortic arch. It coursed obliquely upwards and to the right behind the esophagus and trachea heading for the superior thoracic aperture. Its area of distribution was normal. Here, we describe this rare anomaly, and discuss its morphologic types, development, incidence, common associated anomalies and clinical correlations.