Symmetrical double aortic arch in a beagle puppy

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Cardiology
• Comparative Pathology
• Canine Anatomy

Background:

• Double aortic arch, a rare congenital anomaly resulting from the persistence of both fourth aortic arches, is infrequently documented in canine species.
• Previous reports indicate a predilection for this condition in German Shepherd dogs, making occurrences in other breeds noteworthy.

Observation:

• An eight-week-old male Beagle presented with a three-week history of regurgitation and dyspnea, indicative of significant esophageal or tracheal compromise.
• Diagnostic imaging, including barium esophagography, revealed severe esophageal constriction near the heart base, initially suggesting a persistent right aortic arch.
• Intraoperative findings during a left-sided thoracotomy identified the esophagus positioned to the right of the aorta, with the ligamentum arteriosum ligated and divided.

Findings:

• Postmortem examination confirmed a double aortic arch, a complex vascular ring anomaly that entrapped both the esophagus and trachea.
• The initial surgical approach, based on a provisional diagnosis, did not fully address the anatomical complexity of the double aortic arch.
• Postoperative deterioration and euthanasia underscore the critical nature of precise pre-surgical planning for vascular ring anomalies.

Implications:

• This case emphasizes the importance of advanced imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) or angiography for definitive diagnosis of vascular ring anomalies in dogs.
• Accurate pre-operative assessment is crucial for identifying the exact configuration of the vascular ring and any concurrent anomalies, thereby optimizing surgical strategy.
• Veterinary surgeons should be aware of the potential for double aortic arches, even in breeds not typically reported, and consider advanced diagnostics for complex cases.