Bilateral subclavian steal syndrome

BackgroundBilateral atherosclerotic subclavian artery occlusion is rare.AimTo describe the surgical treatment of a patient with symptomatic bilateral subclavian artery occlusion.MethodsA midline sternotomy and bilateral aorto-subclavian bypass was performed in a male with upper limb, exercise-induced vertigo.ResultsPostoperatively symptomatic improvement paralleled an increase in brachial systolic arterial blood pressure readings.ConclusionBypass grafting is the more durable option for subclavian artery occlusion, as angioplasty with or without stenting is associated with a higher rate of late stenosis.