Subclavian Aneurysm

What is a Subclavian Aneurysm?

A subclavian aneurysm is weakness or bulging in the wall of the subclavian artery, which is located below the collarbone. If the aneurysm ruptures, it could cause life-threatening uncontrolled bleeding. Blood clots caused by the aneurysm could potentially lead to stroke or loss of fingers, the hand, or in rare cases the entire arm.

Causes

• Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Thoracic outlet syndrome (compression of the blood vessels and nerves around the collarbone)
• Trauma
• Connective tissue disorder (Marfan's syndrome)

Risk Factors

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Family history of atherosclerosis
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• An extra rib above the first rib
• Abnormally tight fibrous band (ligament) connecting the spinal vertebra with the ribs
• Long neck
• Droopy shoulders
• Connective tissue disorder (Marfan´s syndrome)

What are the Symptoms?

• A pulsating mass above or below the collarbone
• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• A feeling of hoarseness in the throat
• Fatigue in the upper extremities
• Numbness, tingling, fatigue or ulcers in the fingers

How is a Subclavian Aneurysm Diagnosed?

• Angiography: Dye is injected into the arteries through a catheter, then an X-ray is taken to show how blood flows through the arteries and whether any aneurysms are present.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan: Radio waves and magnetic fields are used to show areas where an aneurysm may be present.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan: X-ray slices of the subclavian artery are taken to determine if there are any aneurysms.
• Ultrasound: Sound waves are used to measure blood flow in the artery and determine whether there is an aneurysm.

Treatment at UVA's Heart and Vascular Center

Surgery is the most common treatment option for subclavian aneurysms. The aneurysm will be repaired, either with a vein from elsewhere in the body or with a synthetic graft.