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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Causes

Double aortic arch is a birth defect. The cause is not known.

Risk Factors

Risk factors are not well known.

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.

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent this health problem.