The Congenital Variety of the "Subclavian Steal" Syndrome

A case of the subclavian steal syndrome due to congenital atresia of the left subclavian artery is described. Attention is called to the alterations in contour and peak time of the pulse in the involved arm, making clinical diagnosis possible. Absence of signs and symptoms of basilar arterial insufficiency is pointed out and ascribed to the youthful state of the cerebral arteries. The continued use of the term “subclavian steal” is encouraged.