Reflections on "The Subclavian Steal"

Abstract

Reversal of blood flow in the vertebral artery, demonstrated by angiography, was reported ten years ago and immediately given the colorful name of "The Subclavian Steal." Since then, numerous articles have appeared, in English and other languages, reporting both clinical and arteriographical descriptions of the phenomenon. A search of the literature has turned up a most interesting early report in which cerebrovascular symptoms were ascribed to the hemodynamic alterations. This case report appeared almost 100 years prior to the aforementioned article in the modern medical literature. It was further suggested by the physician describing this case that ligature of the vertebral artery would be the treatment of choice in the relief of symptoms.