Overview

Vascular rings are malformations of the aortic arch in the main blood vessel that leads from the heart. Because of the malformation, the aortic arch and its branches partly or completely encircle the windpipe (trachea), the esophagus or both. The esophagus is the tube that leads from your mouth to your stomach.

These defects are present at birth (congenital), but symptoms can occur in infancy or later in life. Symptoms are caused by some portion of the ring pressing against the trachea or esophagus or both.

Some people with vascular rings don't have symptoms, but vascular rings that press against the trachea and esophagus can lead to breathing and digestive problems. Respiratory signs and symptoms may include:

• Frequent respiratory infections
• Wheezing
• Coughing

Digestive signs and symptoms may include:

• Trouble swallowing
• Difficulty feeding
• Vomiting

People with vascular rings may also have other congenital heart defects.