Conversion of Left- to a Right-Sided Aortic Arch: A Radical Approach for Select Indications

Thoracic aortic graft infections, anomalous arch anatomy, and vascular rings may cause tracheal and/or esophageal compression. These circumstances often create challenging clinical dilemmas such that anatomical repair either does not eliminate the pathologic process completely or poses a measurable risk of recurrence. We describe a novel approach that facilitates complete relocation of the thoracic aorta to either prevent graft placement in an infected field or prevent tracheal and/or esophageal compression that effectively converts left-sided to right-sided arch anatomy.