subclavian steal syndrome
Vascular condition where subclavian artery stenosis causes retrograde flow in the vertebral artery during arm exercise.
Full Definition
Subclavian steal syndrome occurs when significant stenosis or occlusion of the subclavian artery proximal to the vertebral artery origin creates a pressure differential that reverses blood flow in the ipsilateral vertebral artery. During increased metabolic demand in the affected arm, blood is 'stolen' from the posterior cerebral circulation through retrograde vertebral flow, potentially causing vertebrobasilar insufficiency symptoms. The condition can be asymptomatic or present with arm claudication, posterior circulation stroke symptoms, or coronary steal if a mammary artery graft is present. Diagnosis is confirmed by duplex ultrasound or angiography showing flow reversal.
Usage
Usage note: Should not be confused with general 'steal phenomena' in other vascular beds.
In Context
- "Duplex imaging confirmed subclavian steal syndrome with complete flow reversal in the left vertebral artery." — Diagnostic report
- "The patient's dizziness during arm exercise was attributed to subclavian steal syndrome secondary to proximal left subclavian stenosis." — Clinical assessment