Management of prenatally detected vascular rings: a United Kingdom national survey.

Objective: To investigate UK variability in prenatal and postnatal management strategy of right aortic arch and double aortic arch (RAA/DAA).

Methods: Online surveys were sent to senior physicians (consultants) of the National Fetal Cardiology Working Group regarding prenatal diagnosis, counselling, and perinatal management of antenatally diagnosed RAA/DAA and to the British Congenital Cardiovascular Association regarding postnatal management strategies.

Results: There were 28 prenatal and 90 postnatal surveys completed. Prenatally, there was consensus for potential associated chromosomal/genetic anomalies, but there was variation in the risk quoted. Confidence in defining aortic arch morphology was reported by 43% (12/28) of fetal cardiologists. There was variation in what was felt to be possible symptoms/signs of a compressive vascular ring, postnatal investigation, postnatal management, follow-up duration of asymptomatic patients, and indications for surgical intervention.

Conclusion: This study has highlighted important areas for future research: improving accuracy of prenatal diagnosis, clarification of potential symptoms, optimal investigation strategies, and indications for surgery.