Surgical Treatment of Subclavian Steal Syndrome

Axillo-axillary Bypass Graft

Abstract

To investigate the precise hemodynamics of subclavian steal syndrome, we measured vertebral and basilar artery flow of a monkey by means of an electromagnetic flow-meter. Acute occlusion of the unilateral subclavian artery proximal to the origin of the vertebral artery produced “subclavian steal phenomen.” Namely, reversed flow of the vertebral artery on the same side is observed and basilar flow decreased to 30% of the resting level.
Numerous operative procedures have been proposed for the correction of subclavian steal syndrome. We have successfully treated 2 patients with symptomatic subclavian artery occlusive disease by the construction of axillo-axillary artery bypass grafts. These patients have been followed for 2 years, and they have experienced favorable patency and symptomatic improvement.
Operative procedures of our 2 patients are mentioned individually. Axillo-axillary bypass graft should be the first choice of surgical method for patients with subclavian steal syndrome because of its effectiveness, absence of serious complications and ease of performance.