Kommerell’s Diverticulum with aberrant right subclavian artery

I’m trying to get some questions answered and also figure out how do I go about getting an appointment

Hi @abutler27 . I was diagnosed 2 yrs ago with a kink in my aorta. This led to large transverse aortic aneurysm and left subclavian aneurysm. I also had a right aberrant subclavian artery. I was referred to Mayo and Nov 2019 had 2 surgeries, one by Dr. Pochettino to repair aorta and left subclavian and Dr.Bower relocated the aberrant right subclavian. I was told the right aberrant did not have an aneurysm so I did not have Kommerells. I was really happy I went to Mayo. I saw 2 other surgeons prior- both did not want to operate on me. Dr.Pochettino never hesitated was confident from the first conversation he could repair. It was not an easy surgery or recovery but 2 years later I have worked up to running 2 miles a day and can pretty much do everything as before. I highly recommend the Mayo surgeons- they took my case when no one else would. Best of luck with everything!
Jeane

Hi @abutler27 and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. Are you looking to connect with others who have the same thing or looking to get questions answered?

I found out that I have a right sided aortic arch with a abberent left subclavian artery with a kommerell diverticulum and is having coughing shortness of breath when exercising and coughing after eating a big meal I also have a positive Ana titer hypertension and I have noticed a difference in my Bp readings in my arms like my left arm will read 146/90 and my right would read 120/90

burden to my family

Thank you I am almost 79 years old and just do not want to be burden

Hi!! I did have hypertension, but I also have bicuspid aorta and some other cardiac issues- which contribute to that. I have never had chest pain. I was told normally surgery is not recommended unless you have an aneurysm (Kommerells ) and only when that reaches a certain size. I did have mine relocated because I had to have an aortic graft which was where my ARSA was- due to my coarctation. It was done through my neck by Dr.Bower a vascular surgeon. I have done well- no restrictions. It’s not a common issue- I suggest making sure you find a dr experienced with treating it.
Especially because everyone is different and treatment should be decided on your specific case. There is some information on the Mayo website.
Best wishes!

yes I do sometimes also voice becomes hearse

Thank you for the information....I too was diagnosed with ARSA..at what point do you need surgery. No one can explain much to me .Would appreciate any information you have to share. Do you have chest pain or hypertension?

I went to Mayo for a few reasons. One my cardiologist was not familiar with treating aberrant artery, also I had many other anatomical issues that my dr and surgeon here did not feel comfortable treating ( and I highly respect that both were honest enough with me to tell me that--instead of trying to treat me and risk my health). Mayo has an affiliation with our hospital- so it was the best place for me to start. I got an appt there quickly- within a month, and in the time before that--spoke to Dr. Dearni over the phone. I was scheduled for surgery a little over a month later. As for Mayo having the top physicians-- I feel they do. Dr. Pochettino had only a few minutes-due to being called away for an emergent surgery- but he pulled up my scan--in a matter of minutes told me confidently a plan- he told me he had only seen maybe five patients with similar anatomical issues such as me--but that the surgery to fix my problems was one he had done many, many times. And he said because of his experience with working mainly with the aorta- he wanted to do surgery now. Thats what makes Mayo better in my opinion--they see the most uncommon problems on a regular basis--because like me--many of the patients are referred to them from all over the world. Also their surgeons have a focus--Dr. Pochettino was a cardiosurgeon who focused on aorta-so that's who i was initially referred to. He does many of his ARSA surgeries with Dr.Bower. I imagine there must be some type of virtual appts. I was supposed to go there to meet with Dr.Bower for my year follow up for my ARSA surgery. I was able to get my scans here in Florida, mail them to Dr.Bower and the office called me and basically did the follow up over the phone. This is the most organized medical facility I have been to-- I am a nurse and my husband a physician-- both of us where amazed at how well Mayo operated. I don't know if I was able to help answer any of your questions....

Best Wishes,
Jeane