Left aortic arch with right descending aorta and severe coarctation: an unusual "vascular clamp" with airway compression.

Left aortic arch with right descending aorta is a rare congenital anomaly. We describe the clinical presentation of this unusual anomaly associated with cardiorespiratory compromise from severe aortic obstruction and left main bronchus compression. The anatomical peculiarities, embryological basis, and surgical solutions are presented.