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Kommerell’s Diverticulum with aberrant right subclavian artery
Heart & Blood Health | Last Active: Sep 19, 2023 | Replies (62)Comment receiving replies
@lalasmomallie
I had an ARSA. I had several other problems with it- that required their own surgery. My ARSA was not aneurysmal. I would not have had it relocated if it was not in the way of my other issues (CoA). Which ironically caused a left subclavian aneurysm- 3.4mm in size. My surgery(s) were done at Mayo. It was a short surgery through my neck- about a 5 in incision. My ARSA was moved to the carotid. I had one drain after surgery to help with swelling- it was pain wise pretty rough the first night- but then ok. But I also had open heart(thoracotomy) the next day to repair the aorta and left subclavian artery. My ARSA did not ring around my esophagus or impeded on anything. The surgeon thought it would have never bothered me or became symptomatic if it had stayed. I think surgery wise it would depend on how many structures are affected to determine how difficult the surgery would be and that would I am sure affect recovery. I would get at least 2 opinions- this is still a fairly rare finding- try university centers or bigger cardiac centers. Best wishes…. Take care
Jeane Abbas
Replies to "@lalasmomallie I had an ARSA. I had several other problems with it- that required their own..."
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Seeking Advice on Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery and Ongoing Health Concerns
Hello @lalasmomallie, @mrsr1234,
I've recently discovered that I have an Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery (ARSA) which branches from the posterior arch and goes behind my esophagus. This diagnosis came after four years of persistent, unexplained chest pain, and shortness of breath. Though I had multiple tests with my cardiologist, I was told that my heart was fine. "In 2019, an MRA neck scan revealed both a blockage in my Carotid artery and the presence of ARSA. While the doctor informed me about the blockage, the ARSA finding was neither communicated to me nor added to my medical records."
Fast forward to last year, I had a bone scan at the Mayo Clinic that also identified the ARSA. However, this was never communicated to me either. My local endocrinologist was the first to point it out during a recent consultation to figure out the source of my daily chest pain. He's now scheduled a Barium swallow test for me, suspecting Dysphagia induced by ARSA.
Last year, I sought treatment at the Mayo Clinic for debilitating leg pain, weakness, and additional symptoms including chest pain. Despite multiple tests, they could not diagnose my condition, leading me to discontinue my visits. Over the past three months, my symptoms, including chest pains, swallowing difficulties, and high blood pressure—even on medication—have worsened. I've also experienced severe headaches and moments of dizziness.
I reached out to the Mayo Clinic again and have an appointment scheduled for October. Interestingly, they were not even aware that ARSA had been indicated in the bone scan they conducted last year until I showed them the proof.
I'm feeling incredibly stressed and am seeking anyone who has information or has dealt with similar issues. I've found limited research online, with some information available on the Johns Hopkins website. I see that a few members here had surgery for this condition. I'm desperate for answers, as my condition worsens by the day.
Thank you for taking the time to read this lengthy post. Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated, as I can't wait until October for answers.
Best regards.