[Atherosclerotic aneurysm of the subclavian artery]

An aneurysm of the right subclavian artery, a rare pathologic entity, is described. The presence of a pulsatile mass in the cervical region should always suggest the diagnosis, which is best confirmed by arteriography. Approaching the lesion by partial sternotomy extending to the third intercostal space gives excellent exposure. The aneurysm should be resected and vascular continuity re-established by the use of a synthetic prosthesis.