Patent ductus arteriosus coinciding with anomalous aortic arch branches: Clinico-embryological spectrum

We report patent ductus arteriosus and an anomalous branching pattern of the arch of the aorta in a cadaver of 82 years old male. Identifying patent ductus arteriosus and variation in the branching pattern of the arch of the aorta is important in patients with pulmonary hypertension or congenital heart disease. These vascular anomalies may be clinically silent or haemodynamically significant. The knowledge of these congenital anomalies is very important before planning endovascular interventional procedures to avoid any iatrogenic action. The embryological basis and clinical significance of the anomalous branches of the aortic arch and patent ductus arteriosus are discussed here.