Definition
Double aortic arch is a type of vascular ring heart defect. A large artery called the aorta branches into right and left tubes, instead of just being one large tube. The 2 tubes can circle around and press the airways and the tube that brings food from the mouth to the stomach (esophagus).
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Symptoms
A baby may have:
- Problems breathing
- Poor feeding, such as choking
- Trouble swallowing
- Vomiting
Diagnosis
It may be noticed in infancy but it is often found later.
The doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done.
Pictures may be taken of your child’s body. This can be done with:
- Chest x-ray
- CT angiogram
- MRI angiogram
- Echocardiogram
- Bronchoscopy
Treatment
Surgery can be done to tie off and close one of the extra branches. Symptoms may get better right away or over time.
Children will need lifelong monitoring by a doctor who treats the heart.
RESOURCES
American Heart Association http://www.heart.org
Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatrics http://www.healthychildren.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Canadian Cardiovascular Society http://www.ccs.ca
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada http://www.heartandstroke.com
References
Double aortic arch. Cove Point Foundation—Johns Hopkins University website. Available at: http://www.pted.org/?id=doubleaortic1. Accessed November 4, 2020.
Licari A, Manca E, et al. Congenital vascular rings: a clinical challenge for the pediatrician. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015 May;50(5):511-524.
Vascular rings and slings. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/vascular-rings-and-slings. Accessed November 4, 2020.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Kari Kassir, MD
- Review Date: 09/2020
- Update Date: 05/07/2021