Subclavian Steal Syndrome (SSS)- A Rare Phenomenon

Abstract

Subclavian Steal Syndrome (SSS) occurs when the first part of the subclavian artery is stenosed, proximal to the origin of vertebral artery. The first part of subclavian artery usually supplies the arm. Whenever the pressure is put in arms, flow reversal from the vertebral artery to the arms occurs leading to vertebrobasilar insufficiency (steals flow from brain). Atherosclerosis is the usual culprit so these patients are also prone to coronary artery disease and stroke.

Keywords

• intermittent chest pain
• subclavian artery
• surgical revascularisation