Circumflex left aortic arch: a new vascular ring anomaly in dogs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Cardiology
• Congenital Malformations
• Canine Anatomy

Background:

• Congenital vascular ring anomalies are rare in dogs.
• Esophageal constriction can lead to significant clinical signs.
• The circumflex left aortic arch is a newly identified variant.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the novel circumflex left aortic arch in dogs.
• To detail its anatomical features and clinical presentation.
• To discuss diagnostic and management implications.

Main Methods:

• Case series involving three large-breed dogs.
• Clinical data collection including history and physical examination.
• Diagnostic imaging using computed tomography (CT).

Main Results:

• CT revealed a circumflex left aortic arch causing esophageal constriction in all dogs.
• Clinical signs included chronic postprandial regurgitation and poor growth.
• Associated anomalies such as patent ductus arteriosus and aberrant subclavian artery were noted.

Conclusions:

• Circumflex left aortic arch is a rare canine congenital vascular ring anomaly.
• It mimics human anatomical derangements and presents with similar clinical signs.
• CT is crucial for diagnosis, surgical planning, and identifying concurrent malformations.