Recurrent coarctation of the thoracic aorta: subclavian flap arterioplasty with carotid reimplantation of the distal subclavian artery.

Combining a subclavian flap procedure and reimplantation of the distal subclavian artery into the left carotid artery was used in 2 patients with recurrent coarctation of the thoracic aorta. One of the patients was 12 years old and the other, 6 years old. The operation has several advantages. (1) It is very efficient in relieving recurrent gradients. (2) The use of prosthetic material is avoided. (3) Minimal dissection is required. (4) It prevents subsequent subclavian steal syndrome and long-term ischemia of the left upper limb.