Introduction
Vascular rings are comprised of multiple structures that together cause
external compression on the airway and esophagus. Discussion and
education regarding repair of simple rings such as division of a
ligamentum arteriosum or double aortic arch is usually straight forward.
With more complex anatomy, however, the goal of the operation can become
lost in a description of terms and anatomical nuances that are difficult
to communicate effectively to the patient and their family. Three
dimensional (3D) printing can be a useful adjunct in the education of
patients and their family prior to surgery.
We describe our treatment of a 9 year old female with right side
dominant double aortic arch, with circumflex aorta. 3D printing was used
in the description of the circumflex aorta and decision to pursue
surgical treatment. Although a double aortic arch with an atretic limb
is relatively common in the setting of vascular rings, a circumflex
aorta is a rare congenital abnormality that can confound the proper
diagnosis and can result in airway or esophageal compression.