Anomalous Artery Research Articles

Anterior communicating artery aneurysm with concomitant A2 segment triplication and anterior communicating artery fenestration, a case series

Introduction and Importance: There are few cases of multiple simultaneous anterior communicating artery (AComA) aneurysms with A2 triplication and AComA duplication. Cases Presentation: 1- A fenestrated AComA with a saccular aneurysm (neck diameter 9 mm; dome height 8 mm) projecting superiorly from the distal AComA branch, as well as an anomalous artery arising from the posterior surface of the same AComA. 2- A duplicate AComA with a saccular aneurysm (neck diameter of 5 mm; dome height of 9 mm) projecting superioposteriorly from the distal AComA branch, as well as an anomalous artery arising from the anterior surface of the same AComA was diagnosed. Both were treated by microsurgical titanium clip occlusion. Clinical Discussion: Anatomical variations are believed to enhance the risk of anterior communicating artery (AComA) aneurysms, accounting for approximately 30% of all intracranial aneurysms. In such circumstances, the goal is to occlude the aneurysmal lesions safely while preserving the patency of other branches. Conclusion: AComA aneurysms accompanied by anomalous triplicated A2 and fenestrated AComA are rare and challenging. Such complex cases response best using microsurgery using titanium clip occlusion with durable favorable outcomes.

Indocyanine Green (ICG): A Versatile Tool in Enhancing Precision in Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery

Intraoperative fluorescence imaging using indocyanine green (ICG) is an innovative and safe tool in minimally invasive thoracic surgery. It provides real-time imaging capabilities that can enhance surgical precision. We describe several clinical uses of ICG including intersegmental plane identification, thoracic duct injury localisation, anomalous systemic artery identification in pulmonary sequestration, phrenic nerve identification, and sentinel lymph node mapping. Successful visualisation of ICG was achieved to identify intra-thoracic anatomical structures and boundaries, allowing for safe and precise dissection.

Persistent trigeminal artery aneurysm rupture inducing a carotid-cavernous fistula: its presentation and management. Illustrative case.

A carotid-cavernous fistula (CCF) is a well-recognized entity resulting from an abnormal connection between the internal carotid artery (ICA) or external carotid artery and the cavernous sinus. Typical CCF symptomology includes proptosis, chemosis, orbital bruit, headache, facial pain, and cranial nerve (CN) palsies. While CCFs most often occur posttraumatically, they can also occur spontaneously, secondary to cavernous ICA aneurysm rupture. Very rarely, they can occur secondary to the rupture of an anomalous persistent trigeminal artery (PTA) aneurysm. Herein, the authors describe the case of a 54-year-old woman who presented with a CN VI palsy and headache due to a CCF secondary to a PTA aneurysm rupture. The CCF was ultimately treated via coil embolization of the aneurysm and the parent PTA vessel. Though such occurrences are rare, clinicians should be vigilant in assessing for the presence of a PTA in patients with a CCF, as a PTA-associated CCF requires unique treatment considerations. In some cases where the PTA plays a crucial role in the posterior circulation supply, preservation of the parent vessel PTA is crucial. However, in cases in which an adequate posterior circulation collateral supply exists, embolization of the aneurysm and the parent vessel PTA is a reasonable treatment option for fistula closure. https://thejns.org/doi/10.3171/CASE24287.

Intralobar Pulmonary Sequestration: Varied Presentations and Different Treatment Modalities

Abstract Pulmonary sequestration, accounting for 0.15%–6.4% of congenital abnormalities, is a dysplastic lung tissue that receives an abnormal systemic arterial supply and has an abnormal tracheobronchial connection. There are two types, namely, extralobar and intralobar. The intralobar sequestration, a dysplastic lung tissue, is characterized by the absence of its own visceral pleura and has its arterial supply from the anomalous systemic artery and venous drainage into the pulmonary vein. These three cases highlight the various presentations and treatment modalities available.

Anomalous left circumflex artery origin in aortic root surgery

Anomalous left circumflex artery origin in aortic root surgery

Bow hunter’s syndrome due to an anomalous right vertebral artery origin and contralateral absence: a case report and literature review

BackgroundBow Hunter’s syndrome (BHS), also known as rotational vertebral artery occlusion (RVAO), is a rare condition characterized by dynamic vertebrobasilar insufficiency due to position-dependent occlusion of the vertebral artery (VA). In the existing literature, most cases of BHS are attributed to osteophytic compression originating from the occipital condyle or within the transverse foramen, often accompanied by anatomical abnormalities of the VA. However, cases presenting solely with VA anomalies in the absence of any cervical vertebral structural abnormality are rare. This case report presents a unique instance of BHS in a 56-year-old male, attributed to the anomalous origin of the right VA and the absence of the left VA, without cervical structural abnormalities.Case presentationThe patient exhibited symptoms like episodic dizziness and vertigo, which were exacerbated by rightward head rotation and alleviated upon returning to a neutral position. Diagnostic evaluation, including digital subtraction angiography, revealed that the right VA originated from the right common carotid artery and compression-induced stenosis of the right VA during head rotation. Conservative management, including avoidance of certain head movements and anti-arteriosclerosis medication, led to symptom resolution over a two-year follow-up period.ConclusionsThis report contributes to the understanding of BHS by highlighting a rare vascular anomaly presentation and incorporates a review of 14 similar case reports in the literature describing that an anatomical abnormality of the VA is mainly responsible for the pathology of BHS in the absence of cervical vertebral anomalies, thus emphasizing the need for careful diagnostic and management strategies.

A Rare Case of a Large Aortopulmonary Window with Anomalous Right Pulmonary Artery From Ascending Aorta in a Young Adult

Background: The aortopulmonary window, a rare congenital condition, is an abnormal communication between the ascending aorta and the major pulmonary artery. This anomaly often necessitates early surgical intervention because its prognosis is unfavorable. Cases of adult survival without treatment are exceedingly rare. This condition is typically fatal in childhood if left untreated. In rare instances, it may manifest in adults, presenting symptoms similar to those of pulmonary hypertension. These patients exhibit clinical presentations that are indistinguishable from those of more common conditions characterized by a left-to-right shunt. Through careful transthoracic echocardiography, it is possible to identify the defect in the aortopulmonary septum. Results: We present a unique case of a 23-year-old adult diagnosed with a large, unrepaired aortopulmonary window, illustrating the challenges in diagnosing and managing such rare adult presentations.

Aorta-right atrial tunnel with anomalous circumflex artery origin

Aorta-right atrial tunnel with anomalous circumflex artery origin

Management of Anomalous Left Vertebral Artery During Open Total Arch Replacement

BackgroundAn anomalous left vertebral artery (aLVA) can complicate aortic arch surgery. We examined the safety of various aLVA revascularization strategies during open total arch replacement. MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated 92 patients undergoing total arch replacement from January 2018 to May 2023 and identified 11 patients with aLVA. A comparison group (n = 31) with conventional 3-branched anatomy was selected by 3:1 matching on age, sex, circulatory arrest time, and operative mortality. Forty-two patients were selected for analysis. The primary outcome was perioperative stroke within 30 days. Secondary outcomes included spinal cord ischemia and long-term stroke. ResultsPatients with aLVA had an average age of 53 ±16 years. Indications included Stanford type A dissection (n = 4), chronic dissection with aneurysmal degeneration (n = 4), and primary aneurysmal disease (n = 3). The aLVA was reconstructed by transposition to the left carotid (n = 2) or subclavian (n = 8). In 1 case, partial zone 2 arch replacement was performed proximal to the aLVA and manipulation was not required. Total arch replacement with frozen elephant trunk was performed in 8 of 11 cases. No postoperative mortality was observed. One patient experienced transient postoperative stroke (9% vs 9%, P = 1.00). One patient received lumbar drain for suspected spinal cord ischemia (9% vs 7%, P = 0.59). One patient experienced stroke 6 months post operation. One-year patency of transposition was 100%. ConclusionsThe presence of aLVA does not impact outcomes of open arch surgery. Our strategy to preserve the aLVA may be preferable to simple ligation. We describe several safe and feasible approaches for reimplantation of this anomalous variant.

Anomalous bronchial artery origin - canary in the coal mine - for diagnosing chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension

Anomalous bronchial artery origins may have clinical implications beyond their anatomical curiosity. In this case, the identification of such an anomaly led to the diagnosis of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). A 49-year-old male with a history of recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) on anticoagulation presented with chest pain and shortness of breath. Laboratory analysis was remarkable for a troponin peak of 14.74 ng/ml, a brain natriuretic peptide level of 602 pg/ml and a D-dimer level of 0.62 µg/ml. Electrocardiogram showed non-specific ST elevation in the anterolateral and inferior leads. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the chest was positive for PE involving the right lower lobe pulmonary arterial tree. Echocardiogram showed reduced left ventricular function (ejection fraction 38%) and akinesis of the antero-apical and infero-apical segments. Cardiac catheterization revealed non-obstructive coronary arteries, and an anomalous origin of a right bronchial artery from the right coronary artery. The right bronchial hypertrophied as it supplied collateral flow to the occluded right pulmonary artery. This anomaly and the patient’s history of multiple DVT/PEs while on therapeutic levels of warfarin with near normal D-dimer levels raised suspicion for a false positive PE. Pulmonary angiogram revealed chronic occlusion in branches of the right pulmonary artery, mean pulmonary artery pressure of 36 mmHg and no acute thrombus. Ventilation-perfusion scan confirmed the diagnosis of CTEPH. The patient underwent successful pulmonary thromboendarterectomy and subsequently had normalization of mean pulmonary artery pressure. This case underscores the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach, and consideration of alternative explanations for imaging findings, that unveiled the diagnosis of a complex and life-threatening condition such as CTEPH.

Anomalous circumflex artery encircling the aortic annulus: implications for mitral valve repair

Injury to coronary arteries during mitral surgery is a rare but life-threatening procedural complication, an anomalous origin and course of the left circumflex artery (LCx) increase this risk. Recognizing the anomaly by the characteristic angiographic pattern and identifying its relationship with the surrounding anatomical structure using imaging techniques, mainly transesophageal echocardiography (TOE) or coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), is of crucial importance in setting up the best surgical strategy. We report a case of anomalous origin of a circumflex artery (LCx) from the proximal portion of the right coronary artery (RCA) with a pathway running retroaortically through the mitro-aortic space. An integrated diagnostic approach using a multidisciplinary team with a cardiologist and an imaging radiologist allowed us to decide the surgical strategy. We successfully performed a mitral valvular repair using a minimally invasive minithoracotomic approach and implanting a complete semirigid ring.

Vertebrobasilar connection in uterine artery anomalies: An unique case report

Objective: To report a rare case of anomalous uterine artery with vertebrobasilar connection. Methods: Medical record analysis and literature review at scientific Database.

Wartenberg’s syndrome – A unique presentation resulting from compression of the superficial radial nerve from an anomalous radial artery branch

Wartenberg’s syndrome is a compression sensorineural mononeuropathy of the superficial branch of the radial nerve. This case report describes a patient, who was severely debilitated by compression of the superficial branch of the radial nerve that she was unable to work. The case highlights a unique anatomical variation in the course of the deep terminal branch of the superficial radial artery causing compression of the superficial branch of the radial nerve. To the best of our knowledge, this has never been described before and should be considered a rare cause of Wartenberg’s syndrome. Surgery can provide both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits and should be considered early in such cases, especially when investigations are contradictory.

Tetralogy of Fallot with vertebral defect and left aberrant subclavian artery: a rare occurrence

BackgroundThe most prevalent cyanotic congenital heart disease is Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). It has a variety of presentations and is made up of four anatomic abnormalities. Documented literature shows an incidence of 13–20% of a right aortic arch with an anomalous left subclavian artery among individuals diagnosed with TOF. This is the first case that discusses the rare occurrence of overriding of the aortic arch along with the left aberrant subclavian artery and vertebral defect in a 3-week-old girl. Timely identification and management are pivotal in ensuring the best possible outcomes for these young patients.Case presentationA 3-week-old female child came with complaints of dyspnea, dysphagia, fatigue, and cyanosis on extreme crying, feeding, and moderate activity. Echocardiography revealed severe pulmonary stenosis with right ventricular dilatation and ventricular septal defect (VSD); a chest computed tomography was performed that revealed four characteristic features of TOF (pulmonary artery stenosis, VSD, right aortic root deviation, and concentric right ventricular hypertrophy) along with overriding of the aortic arch accompanied with the left aberrant subclavian artery (compressing the trachea and infundibulum) and vertebral defect (butterfly vertebra).ConclusionsThe case of this 3-week-old female infant emphasizes the importance of early and accurate diagnosis in congenital heart diseases, particularly when faced with complex presentations such as the TOF. It serves as a testament to the valuable role of advanced diagnostic imaging techniques in unraveling the complexity of congenital heart conditions.

Non-recurrent Laryngeal Nerve During Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Thyroidectomy: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Complete and precise knowledge of the neck anatomy and its eventual anomalies is crucial while performing a safe thyroid and parathyroid surgery. Embryo-genetic malformations of the IV branchial arch can lead to an uncommon anatomical alteration known as non-recurrent inferior laryngeal nerve. Its prevalence varies between 0.7% for the dextral branch and 0.04% for the sinistral. In these cases, the inferior laryngeal nerve branches originate directly from the cervical vagus nerve, entering the larynx without hooking, on the right side around the subclavian artery or on the left around the aortic arch. The presence of a non-recurrent laryngeal nerve is challenging, due to the increased risks of iatrogenic damage to the nerve, which results in hoarseness, dysphagia, glottal obstruction, vocal cords palsy, and serious airway impairment. We present the case of a 58-year-old woman. The patient was admitted to our department for a nodule classified as Bethesda IV in the right thyroid lobe. Through the use of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM), surgeons detected intraoperatively a non-recurrent laryngeal nerve. A subsequent computed tomography scan confirmed an anomalous right subclavian artery branching from the left aortic arch, the Lusoria Artery. Anatomical variants represent pitfalls in this case and an accurate knowledge of the neck region is imperative while performing thyroid surgery. Devices such as IONM are useful for detecting abnormalities that may lead to iatrogenic damages.

Assessing Anomalous Left Circumflex Artery Origin from the Right Sinus of Valsalva by Transthoracic Echocardiography

Coronary artery anomaly is a rare condition that is typically detected during coronary angiography, cardiac CT, or autopsy. Most cases are asymptomatic, but some anomalies can cause myocardial ischemia and sudden cardiac death. In most cases, anomalous left circumflex (LCx) origin from the right sinus of Valsalva is detected on angiography or cardiac CT prior to a transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE). On a TTE in the apical window, the “crossed aorta sign” can be seen. In this article, we will discuss two cases of coincidental findings of anomalous LCx origin from the right sinus of Valsalva during routine echocardiography. In the first case, a 76-year-old female presented to our echo lab for a routine echocardiogram to reassess a dilated ascending aorta and aortic regurgitation. In the second case, a 50-year-old male presented to our echo lab for a routine echocardiogram to reassess a known bicuspid aortic valve with moderate to severe aortic regurgitation. Both patients were found to have an anomalous LCx origin from the right sinus of Valsalva.

A case of resected lung cancer with displaced anomalous left upper division bronchus and anomalous left pulmonary artery

A case of resected lung cancer with displaced anomalous left upper division bronchus and anomalous left pulmonary artery

Abstract 15837: Anomalous Bronchial Artery Origin- The Canary in the Coal Mine- For the Diagnosis of Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension

Introduction- Anomalous bronchial artery origin is seen in 8.3% to 35% of cases with most originating from the aortic arch, internal mammary artery, and subclavian artery. Origin of this vessel from a coronary artery is extremely rare. Case presentation- A 49-year-old male with history of unprovoked pulmonary embolisms (PE) in the setting of triple antibody positive Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome on lifelong anticoagulation presented with left sided chest pain and dyspnea. Initial lab work showed a troponin of 5.46 ng/mL, BNP of 602 pg/mL and D-dimer of 0.62 ug/mL. EKG showed normal sinus rhythm with non-specific ST segment changes in anterior leads. Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) was positive for a PE. There was concern for a false positive result due to previous history of multiple PEs while on therapeutic levels of warfarin and near normal D-dimer. Echocardiogram showed ejection fraction of 38% with akinesis of anteroapical and inferoapical segments and no evidence of shunt on bubble study. Cardiac catheterization showed non-obstructive coronaries. From the ostium of the right coronary artery there appeared a fistula like structure extending into the pulmonary vasculature. Pulmonary angiogram was performed and showed chronic occlusion in branches of right pulmonary artery (RPA), pulmonary hypertension (PH) with mean pulmonary artery pressure of 36 mmHg and no evidence of acute thrombus. There was aberrant origin of the right bronchial artery from the right coronary artery that was hypertrophied as it supplied collateral flow to the area of the occluded RPA. The patient was started on guideline directed medical therapy for heart failure and follow up was arranged for further outpatient management of PH. Discussion- A rare congenital anomaly was used to guide the diagnosis of a potentially devastating and treatable medical condition. It shows the limitations of a CTA in the setting of chronic PE.

Abstract 17923: Acute Limb Ischemia Due to Dissection and Thrombosis of Anomalous Right Subclavian Artery: A Rare Complication of Trans-Radial PCI

Introduction: Right subclavian artery (RSA) normally originates from brachiocephalic artery, but in 0.4-1.8% of the general population it may arise directly from the aortic arch distal to the left subclavian artery. We present a case of acute limb ischemia due to dissection and thrombosis of anomalous right subclavian artery (ARSA) following transradial PCI. Case: A 60-year-old female presented with anterior STEMI. Coronary angiogram was performed via right transradial approach. During the procedure the aortic arch was noted to be exceedingly tortuous and coronary artery catheterization was difficult. Post-procedure, patient reported right arm pain. Her right hand was cold with bluish discoloration, nonpalpable right radial, ulnar and brachial artery pulses which prompted a CTA of the chest and right upper extremity. Imaging revealed ARSA with dissection and thrombosis of the RSA extending to mid-brachial artery and absent opacification of radial/ulnar arteries. The patient underwent right brachial artery cutdown, axillary artery thrombectomy and stenting of ARSA dissection. Post procedure, her pulses were palpable with triphasic doppler signals in the radial and ulnar artery. Four months later, surveillance CTA of chest showed patent stent without additional evidence of dissection (Figure 1). Discussion: ARSA is a rare anatomical variation of the origin of the RSA but also the most common abnormality of the aortic arch. ARSA anomaly is often asymptomatic, but approximately 10% is associated with tracheo-esophageal symptoms; the most frequent among them is dysphagia. Only 60% of coronary procedures using transradial approach are successful in the presence of ARSA. This congenital variant makes it difficult to approach the ascending aorta by the right transradial route, as it requires the catheter to curve back to reach the aortic root. Prompt recognition of this anomaly during the procedure and alternate access routes can avoid these severe complications.

Fourth lumbar artery continuation of the common iliac artery with a retro-psoas course demonstrated by CT.

To describe a case of an anomalous common iliac artery (CIA) arising from the aorta as the fourth lumbar artery (4th LA) and following a retro-psoas course as the continuation of the 4th LA. Contrast-enhanced abdominopelvic computed tomography (CT) findings of an incidentally detected anomalous CIA are described in an 8-year-old girl. CT showed that the right CIA originated from the distal aorta at the L3-L4 level with an acute angle and continued posteriorly in the course of the 4th LA. The right CIA descended into the iliac fossa as a single artery, lying posterior to the psoas muscle. It gave off the internal iliac artery (IIA) low in the iliac fossa and continued as the external iliac artery (EIA). The median sacral artery (MSA) originated from the left proximal CIA and joined the posterior division of the right IIA. Fourth LA continuation of the CIA is a rare vascular anomaly with a few published reports to date. The anomaly occurs far more on the right side than the left and is mostly asymptomatic. An abnormal connection between the umbilical artery and the distal aorta probably results in this anomaly, as well as in another group of CIA anomalies that are characterized by the absence of one or two CIAs with trifurcation or quadrifurcation of the distal aorta. Although the vascular anomaly is mostly asymptomatic, knowledge of it is important in the interventions of the area to prevent complications.