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Volume 13, Issue 1
March 2026
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opened journal
Volume 13, Issue 1
March 2026
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Abstract

Introduction

Dysphagia lusoria refers to dysphagia caused by an aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA), a rare congenital anomaly of the aortic arch. This article presents a clinical case of symptomatic ARSA, accompanied by a comprehensive review of its anatomical, clinical, and therapeutic aspects.

Material and methods

We present the case of a 54-year-old female patient diagnosed with dysphagia lusoria due to ARSA, who underwent surgical intervention after clinical and imaging evaluations. The literature was reviewed through PubMed using the keywords: “aberrant right subclavian artery”, “dysphagia lusoria”, and “arteria lusoria”.

Results

The patient presented with progressive dysphagia, morning cough, fatigue, and weight loss. Imaging revealed ARSA compressing the esophagus, and the presence of a bicarotid trunk. Surgical correction involved right subclavian-to-carotid transposition, with complete resolution of symptoms. The literature review showed a modest grade of evidence regarding the management of patients with dysphagia lusoria, mostly including case reports and limited case series. Treatment is usually indicated in symptomatic patients, with options including open surgery or hybrid approaches.

Conclusions

ARSA can cause significant esophageal symptoms in adults, representing a diagnostic challenge. Appropriate imaging and timely surgical intervention are crucial in symptomatic cases. Awareness of aortic anatomical variants is essential for both diagnosis and treatment planning.

Key Messages

What is not yet known on the issue addressed in the submitted manuscript

Although dysphagia lusoria caused by an aberrant right subclavian artery is a recognized condition, there is still no consensus on the optimal diagnostic approach, timing of intervention, or long-term management strategies, particularly in adults. Additionally, the factors influencing symptom severity and the decision-making process between surgical and conservative treatment remain unclear.

The research hypothesis

An aberrant right subclavian artery can cause clinically significant dysphagia, and timely diagnosis through imaging and appropriate surgical management can lead to complete symptom resolution and an improved patient quality of life.

The novelty added by manuscript to the already published scientific literature

By presenting a rare case of dysphagia lusoria in an adult patient, highlighting the diagnostic challenges and a successful management strategy, this report emphasizes the importance of considering vascular anomalies in patients with unexplained dysphagia. The detailed imaging findings and clinical decision-making process offer practical insights for clinicians. Additionally, the literature review provides an updated synthesis of current evidence, addressing gaps in diagnosis and treatment approaches

Introduction

The aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA) was first discovered by Hunauld in the 18th century during an autopsy and represents the most common congenital anomaly of the aortic arch, with an incidence of 0.5-1.0% in the general population [1, 2]. The clinical importance of ARSA stems from its potential to cause symptoms through compression of adjacent mediastinal structures, primarily the esophagus, and a tendency to aneurysmal degeneration (Kommerell diverticulum). When esophageal compression by an ARSA leads to difficulty swallowing, the condition is referred to as “dysphagia lusoria” (from the Latin term “lusus naturae” – freaks of nature), a term introduced by Bayford in 1794 [1, 3, 4]. Since most individuals (more than 90%) with ARSA remain asymptomatic or undiagnosed with this anomaly throughout their lives, there is a paucity of data regarding the management of symptomatic cases. Current literature mostly includes case reports and case series, with significant heterogeneity of clinical presentations, diagnostic modalities, and curative approaches.

Clinical case

We report the clinical case of a 54-year-old female patient who presented to the outpatient clinic of the Division of Thoracic Surgery, complaining of progressive dysphagia, fatigue, and morning cough. The anamnesis also revealed two episodes of black-colored stools and a sensation of compression localized at the lower cervical level, with subsequent radiation to the thoracic region. The patient described a gradual onset of dysphagia approximately 6 months prior to presentation. These symptoms had been gradually worsening over the past month, especially after eating, particularly with solid and semi-liquid foods. Importantly, the patient reported an unintentional weight loss of approximately 8 kilograms over the past few months, attributed to reduced oral intake and food avoidance due to dysphagia. The patient was examined in several outside medical institutions with suspicion of malignancy, neurological, or even psychiatric diseases, none of which were confirmed.

The patient's past medical history includes chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's) diagnosed approximately 10 years ago, stage II arterial hypertension, NYHA class II chronic heart failure, and grade I axial hiatal hernia associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease. The initial physical examination did not reveal cervical deformities, noting only the presence of slightly enlarged bilateral submandibular lymph nodes. The thoracic region showed no visible abnormalities. The patient denied any history of bodily injuries or trauma.

During the initial hospitalization, paraclinical investigations revealed microcytic hypochromic anemia (hemoglobin 88.0 g/L, erythrocytes 5.16 × 1012/L, hematocrit 33.5%), associated with mild leukopenia (leukocytes 3.60 × 109/L). The blood coagulation test and biochemistry profile were within the normal range.

Ultrasonography of the cervical region showed a normal sonographic appearance of the musculo-tendinous, cutaneous, and subcutaneous structures, along with bilateral submandibular lymphadenopathy with ganglion hyperplasia up to 20 × 8 mm and findings suggestive of chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's).

The presence of anemia, weight loss, and black-colored stool initially raised clinical suspicion for upper digestive tract pathology, and esophagogastroscopy was attempted. However, the procedure was stopped at the level of the first physiological narrowing of the esophagus, as the endoscope (with external diameter of 0.9 cm) could not be advanced further. Fibrobronchoscopy did not reveal any endobronchial pathologies. Barium swallow demonstrated evident esophageal narrowing at the level of Th3-Th4 vertebrae, with retention of the contrast media, suggestive of significant extrinsic esophageal compression (Fig. 1).

Fig. 1. Preoperative barium swallow image showing external compression of the esophagus at the T3-T4 vertebrae level. 

Note: The arrow indicates the level of esophageal compression.

 

Computed tomography angiography with intravenous contrast (100 ml Iodixanol) identified an aortic arch anomaly – ARSA (diameter at the origin of 17 mm), originating distal to the left subclavian artery from the posterior surface of the aorta (Fig. 2) and passing to the right behind the esophagus, which was compressed between the artery and the trachea (Fig. 3). The presence of the common origin of the right and left carotid arteries – the so-called “bicarotid trunk” – and dextroposition of the thoracic lymphatic duct was also noted on the axial imaging. No other abnormalities were identified.

Cardiac ultrasonography revealed induration of the ascending aorta and the aortic and mitral valves, moderate dilation of the left atrium, and mild dilation of the right atrium, impaired left ventricular myocardial relaxation, with an ejection fraction of 63%, grade II mitral, grade I-II tricuspid, and grade I aortic insufficiency, along with signs of mild pulmonary hypertension (PASP 34 mmHg). Duplex ultrasonography of the extracranial vessels demonstrated non-diseased common and internal carotid arteries, a decreased diameter and moderate kinking of the right vertebral artery, with a peak systolic velocity of 60-70 cm/sec. 

Fig. 2 Computed tomography angiography of the aortic arch and supra-aortic trunks.

Note: bicarotid trunk (1) and aberrant right subclavian artery (2), Kieffer type III.

Based on the results of clinical and paraclinical evaluation, the patient was diagnosed with esophageal obstruction (dysphagia lusoria) caused by ARSA type III Kieffer, with a Kommerell diverticulum, and was scheduled for surgical intervention. After a multidisciplinary discussion of possible treatment options, the decision was made to perform a right subclavian-carotid transposition surgery via a sternotomy approach.

Fig. 3 Computed tomography angiography: compression of the esophagus between the aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA) and the trachea (T).

Note: The arrow indicates the esophageal compression.

Under general anesthesia with orotracheal intubation, a median sternotomy was performed, the thoracic cavity was explored, and the aortic arch and supra-aortic trunks were carefully dissected and controlled. The ARSA, originating from the posterior surface of the aorta in Ishimaru zone 3, was identified, mobilized in the para-tracheal and para-esophageal space, and followed down to the aorta. After systemic heparinization, the ARSA trunk (Kommerell diverticulum) was slowly double-clamped as close to the aorta as possible and transected, with suture-ligation of the proximal stump using 4/0 polypropylene suture, achieving a leak-proof closure with no bleeding noted (Fig. 4).

Fig. 4 Intraoperative image: surgically dissected supra-aortic trunks, suture-ligated proximal stump of the transected ARSA.

Note: ARSA – aberrant right subclavian artery; RCCA – right common carotid artery; LCCA – left common carotid artery.

 

The distal segment of the ARSA, situated between the esophagus and thoracic vertebrae, was gradually dissected, retracted to the right side of the trachea, and transposed towards the right common carotid artery, avoiding any redundancy or kinks. After clamping of the right common carotid artery, an arteriotomy was performed, and an end-to-side anastomosis with the transposed ARSA was performed using a running 5/0 polypropylene suture (Fig. 5). After clamp removal, pulsatile flow was present distal to the suture line. Surgical hemostasis was achieved, and a retrosternal drain was placed, followed by sternal wound closure in anatomical layers. The surgical intervention lasted 195 minutes, with an estimated blood loss of 600 ml. 

The postoperative course was satisfactory, with no clinically relevant complications. The patient was mobilized early, resumed oral intake gradually, and demonstrated progressive improvement in swallowing function. She was discharged on the 12th postoperative day in satisfactory condition, reporting the complete resolution of dysphagia symptoms with liquid and solid food. 

At the three-month follow-up, the patient reported a weight gain of 5 kilograms, reflecting improved nutritional status and confirming the favorable clinical outcome. She was able to consume solid foods without pain or difficulty during swallowing, and no residual compressive symptoms were reported. Upper digestive tract endoscopy and barium swallow confirmed the normal permeability of the esophagus and excluded any pathology of the stomach and duodenum.

Fig. 5 Intraoperative image: end-to side anastomosis between the transposed ARSA and the right common carotid artery.

Note: ARSA – aberrant right subclavian artery; Right CCA – right common carotid artery; Left CCA – left common carotid artery.

Discussion

This review aims to synthesize the current evidence available primarily through the PubMed database concerning the anatomical variations, prevalence, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies in patients with ARSA and dysphagia lusoria.

The relationship of the ARSA to the esophagus and trachea during its mediastinal transit is clinically crucial. The most frequent course, observed in approximately 80-83% of cases, is retroesophageal, where the artery passes posterior to the esophagus, potentially compressing it against the trachea [5-7]. Less commonly – in approximately 15-17% of cases – the artery passes between the esophagus and the trachea (so-called interesophageotracheal course), compressing the esophagus against the vertebral bodies. Rarely, in around 5% of cases, ARSA may travel anterior to the trachea (pretracheal course) [8]. Imaging studies using CT have shown that ARSA is typically located anterior to the first to fourth thoracic vertebral bodies [9].

Several classification systems exist to describe the anatomic variability of the ARSA, though they are not universally applied. The Adachi and Williams classification describes subtypes based on associated branching patterns of the supra-aortic trunks [10]:

  • Type G-1: ARSA present as the last aortic arch branch, with normal origins for the right common carotid, left common carotid, and left subclavian arteries;

  • Type CG-1: Similar to G-1, but with the left vertebral artery originating directly from the aortic arch;

  • Type H-1: ARSA as the last branch, associated with a bicarotid trunk (common origin for both common carotid arteries);

  • Type N-1: Mirror image of G-1, with a right-sided aortic arch and an aberrant left subclavian artery.

Variations in the ARSA origin from the arch (superior-posterior vs. inferior-posterior) and significant variability in the luminal diameter of the ARSA have also been reported, with some cases exhibiting unusually narrow lumens [11].

In 1994, Kieffer et al. proposed a more clinically oriented classification system for ARSA, aimed at guiding surgical strategy in symptomatic patients. Summarizing their experience with surgical interventions in thirty-three adult patients with ARSA, the authors described four types of pathology [12]. 

  • Kieffer type I: non-stenotic and non-aneurysmal ARSA causing exclusively compressive symptoms;

  • Kieffer type II: presence of stenosis or occlusion of non-aneurysmal ARSA;

  • Kieffer type III: aneurysm of the origin of ARSA (Kommerell diverticulum) without aortic involvement;

  • Kieffer type IV: Kommerell diverticulum associated with aneurysmal dilatation of the aorta.

Associated anomalies

ARSA frequently coexists with other anatomical variations or anomalies, which can have significant clinical implications.

Kommerell diverticulum. This is an aneurysmal dilatation or outpouching at the origin of the ARSA from the descending aorta [1, 4]. The presence of a Kommerell diverticulum is clinically significant, as it may increase the likelihood and severity of compressive symptoms (dysphagia, dyspnea) and carries a risk of aneurysmal degeneration, dissection, or rupture, particularly if the diameter exceeds certain thresholds (often cited as 3-5 cm) [10].

Non-recurrent inferior laryngeal nerve. A strong association exists between ARSA and a non-recurrent course of the right inferior laryngeal nerve [1, 13, 14]. Reports suggest this occurs in up to 87% of ARSA cases. Awareness of this association is critical during thyroid, parathyroid, esophageal, or neck surgeries to prevent nerve injury [15, 16].

Bicarotid trunk. This anomaly involves a common origin for the right and left common carotid arteries directly from the aortic arch [1, 13]. It is reported to coexist with ARSA in a significant minority of cases (19.2% in one review) [13]. The presence of a bicarotid trunk alongside ARSA may increase the likelihood of dysphagia, possibly by limiting the anterior displacement of the trachea and esophagus, thus exacerbating the posterior compression by the ARSA.

Chromosomal abnormalities and syndromes. There is a well-established increased frequency of ARSA in individuals with certain chromosomal abnormalities, particularly Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome) [17, 18]. Prevalence in Down syndrome has been reported as high as 26-35%.  

ARSA is consistently cited as the most common congenital anomaly of the aortic arch [1, 2]. Reported prevalence figures in the general population typically range from 0.5% to 2.0% [4-7], although some sources cite wider ranges up to 4.4% [19, 20]. Specific studies provide context to these figures:

CTA studies. Large retrospective analyses of adult chest CTA scans consistently report prevalence figures around 0.5%. For instance, one study found ARSA in 32 out of 6833 patients (0.47%), and another identified 17 cases in 3460 patients (0.49%) [21].

Fetal ultrasound studies. Prenatal screening studies report prevalence rates often around 1% or slightly higher. One study detected ARSA in 20 of 1913 second-trimester fetuses (1.04%), while another found an incidence of 0.6% in 3266 fetal sonographies. Feasibility of ultrasound detection is high, estimated at 85-95% depending on trimester and factors like operator experience and maternal habitus.

Specific populations. Studies focusing on patients with known arteriopathies found a prevalence of 2.4%. As mentioned, prevalence is significantly higher in populations with Down syndrome or 22q11.2 deletion [6]. 

The observed variation in prevalence likely reflects differences in study methodology, population characteristics, and the sensitivity of the detection method used. CTA in adults provides a reliable estimate for that demographic, likely around 0.5%. Fetal ultrasound identifies cases early, potentially including those that remain asymptomatic, with a rate of around 1%. Cadaveric studies provide anatomical confirmation, though results may vary depending on the studied population. The increasing use and sensitivity of imaging modalities, particularly prenatal ultrasound, may lead to more frequent identification of ARSA [15], raising important questions regarding the natural history and clinical significance of incidentally or prenatally detected cases. Several studies suggest a female predominance for ARSA, with reported female-to-male ratios ranging up to 2:1 or 3:1 in some series [22].

Traditional open surgical interventions for symptomatic ARSA. Open surgical repair is the traditional approach for treating symptomatic ARSA and remains indicated for specific patient groups. The primary indication is the presence of significant symptoms, particularly dysphagia that is severe, persistent, progressive, unresponsive to conservative management, or associated with significant weight loss or nutritional compromise [23]. Other compressive symptoms, like severe dyspnea or cough, may also warrant intervention.

Anatomical factors are also crucial indications for open repair. The presence of aneurysmal dilatation of the ARSA itself often necessitates surgical intervention, even in asymptomatic patients, due to the risk of rupture, dissection, or thromboembolism [16]. While the exact size threshold for prophylactic repair of asymptomatic Kommerell diverticulum remains debated, diameters exceeding 3 cm or 5.0-5.5 cm are often cited as indications, particularly in low-risk patients.

The presence of concomitant thoracic aortic aneurysm or dissection involving the ARSA origin also typically requires open surgical management. Symptomatic occlusive disease of the ARSA, leading to arm claudication or ischemia, is another indication for intervention, usually involving revascularization. Open repair may also be preferred over endovascular options when significant esophageal or tracheal compression is the primary symptom, as endovascular exclusion alone may not relieve the mass effect [24].

Surgical approaches. Several open surgical approaches have been described, each with advantages and disadvantages, largely dictated by the specific anatomy and the goals of the operation.

Thoracotomy 

Left Posterolateral Thoracotomy: Historically considered the standard approach, especially by Gross, who first described surgical correction [13]. It provides excellent exposure of the ARSA origin from the descending aorta, facilitating secure ligation or division, particularly when a Kommerell diverticulum is present or the origin is dilated [25]. However, performing revascularization (reimplantation or bypass) from this approach can be technically challenging due to the distance to suitable inflow sources, like the ascending aorta or right carotid artery.

Right Thoracotomy: Offers better access for anastomosing the distal ARSA to the right common carotid artery or ascending aorta, either directly or with an interposition graft [4]. It may provide less optimal exposure of the ARSA origin, potentially increasing the risk of leaving a residual stump if ligation is not performed flush with the aorta, which could lead to persistent symptoms or thrombosis. This approach is preferred by some for pediatric patients due to better overall exposure in smaller chests. It is also the typical approach for patients with a right-sided aortic arch and an aberrant left subclavian artery [25]. Thoracotomy is generally more invasive than cervical approaches, involving muscle division, potential rib spreading, and longer recovery times [22, 24].

Median sternotomy. This approach provides excellent access to the ascending aorta and brachiocephalic vessels, making it suitable for reimplanting the ARSA onto the ascending aorta or performing bypasses from it. However, exposure of the posteriorly located ARSA origin on the descending aorta for ligation or division can be difficult from this anterior approach.

Supraclavicular (cervical) approach. This is the least invasive of the open approaches, avoiding entry into the thoracic cavity [10, 22]. It provides good access to the distal ARSA in the neck for transposition or bypass to the right common carotid artery. It is generally considered suitable for uncomplicated, non-aneurysmal ARSA. However, this less traumatic approach is not suitable for patients with aneurysmal dilatation of the ARSA and those with dysphagia lusoria (as in our case), because the origin of the anomalous subclavian artery can be securely suture-ligated only via thoracotomy. 

Hybrid and endovascular management. Development and implementation of endovascular techniques has offered new possibilities for the treatment of adult patients with symptomatic ARSA, avoiding potential morbidity associated with thoracotomy. Since revascularization of the right upper limb using carotid-to-subclavian bypass or subclavian-to-carotid transposition can be performed through a less traumatic supraclavicular approach, the endovascular part of the intervention is primarily aimed at occluding the origin of the ARSA. For this purpose, the majority of authors describe the off-label use of the Zenith (Cook Medical, Inc.) iliac occlusion device or an Amplatzer vascular plug (Abbott, USA), positioned at the origin or retroesophageal portion of the aberrant artery [26, 27]. Despite the relative simplicity and efficacy of this intervention, there is a considerable risk of at least two potential complications. First, in patients with large-diameter ARSA or the presence of Kommerell diverticulum, there exists the possibility of occlusion device migration. To prevent this problem, a 50% oversize in diameter of the device is usually recommended [26, 28]. However, positioning of a large occlusion device in the retroesophageal portion of the artery could result in persisting or worsening dysphagia, or even in the formation of an esophageal-subclavian fistula with fatal consequences [29].

Implantation of the thoracic aortic stent-graft (as an isolated endovascular technique or in combination with the use of vascular plugs) was proposed to prevent above-mentioned complications. This approach is indispensable in patients with large Kommerell diverticulum and concomitant aneurysmal disease of the aorta – ARSA type Kieffer IV. It should be mentioned that an adequate landing zone for aortic endograft implantation is required to prevent device migration and endoleaks. In a significant proportion of cases, a simultaneous left-sided carotid-subclavian bypass may be needed to prevent acute deterioration of the posterior cerebral circulation [30]. 

Conclusions

The presented clinical case and literature review demonstrate that symptomatic ARSA represents a rare cause of dysphagia in adult patients, creating significant challenges in diagnosis and management. Dysphagia lusoria should be included in the list of possible diagnoses in patients with an unusual clinical presentation of aero-digestive symptoms. Open surgical or hybrid treatment is indicated in cases with severe symptoms and, due to a lack of strong evidence, must be personalized based on individual anatomical characteristics, physician experience, and patient preferences. 

Competing interests

None declared.

Authors’ contributions

IB, SD, AP, and SG performed data collection and interpretation. DC, IM, AP, and SG performed a search of the bibliographic references and drafted the manuscript. All authors critically reviewed the manuscript and approved the final version of the article.

Ethics approval

Not needed for this study.

Patient consent 

Obtained.

Acknowledgements and funding

No external funding.

Provenance and peer review

Not commissioned, externally peer-reviewed.

Authors’ ORCID IDs

Dumitru Casian – https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4823-0804

Igor Maxim – https://orcid.org/0009-0002-9356-4368

Serghei Gutu – https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9583-0485

Alexandru Predenciuc – https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2730-8115

Sergiu Danu – https://orcid.org/0009-0008-3682-637X

Ion Burlacu – https://orcid.org/0009-0002-4160-9173

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https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.02
Cutaneous malignant melanoma is the most aggressive skin cancer, with a high mortality rate despite advances in therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between lymphovascular and perineural invasion and key clinicopathological parameters in superficial spreading melanoma, in order to assess their potential prognostic significance.
Research Contemporary insights into diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal non-Hodgkin lymphomas
Larisa Musteata1, Maria Robu2, Vasile Musteata1,2*, Dumitrita Urescu1,2, Irina Cebanu1,2, Alina Capanji1
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.03
The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is the most common site of extranodal primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), accounting for 20% to 40% of all extranodal lymphomas. The advanced stages at diagnosis and complications remain significant issues in NHL management, imposing a substantial disease burden on patients and healthcare systems.
Research From prolonged premature rupture of membranes to bronchopulmonary dysplasia: the role of chorioamnionitis in the respiratory outcomes of preterm infants
Liuba Dascaliuc1*, Larisa Crivceanscaia1, Ludmila Oclanschi1, Ninel Revenco1, Angela Cracea1, Zinaida Sârbu2
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.04
Prolonged premature rupture of membranes predisposes to intrauterine infection and chorioamnionitis, both of which have significant implications for neonatal outcomes. While chorioamnionitis has been linked to accelerated surfactant production and reduced respiratory distress syndrome, it is also associated with long-term pulmonary injury, including bronchopulmonary dysplasia and pulmonary hypertension. The objective of the study is to investigate the association between prolonged premature rupture of membranes, chorioamnionitis, and respiratory outcomes among preterm infants ≤34 weeks of gestation.
Research Exploring the clinical spectrum of DiGeorge syndrome
Cristina Tomacinschii1,2*, Victoria Sacara2, Alexandr Dorif2, Marodi Laszlo3,4, Svetlana Sciuca1
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.05
DiGeorge syndrome, known also as 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, is a rare multisystemic disorder characterized by a wide range of clinical features and may include thymic aplasia and subsequent immunodeficiency, conotruncal cardiac anomalies, typical facial features, palatal abnormalities, and hypocalcemia due to hypoparathyroidism.
Research Development and testing of a questionnaire: assessment of occupational risk factors in surgeons
Ana Vîlcova1,2, Alexandru Ferdohleb2, Larisa Spinei3, Angela Paraschiv4, Raisa Deleu1, Elena Ciobanu1
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.07
Surgery exposes professionals to significant physical and psychological risks, including intense exertion, prolonged static postures, and repetitive gestures, often leading to musculoskeletal pain. International studies report prevalence rates above 90%, linked to long procedures and poor ergonomics, alongside exposure to biological and chemical hazards, radiation, toxic smoke, and chronic stress. In the Republic of Moldova, occupational health in the medical sector is underexplored, with no tools tailored to surgeons. This study aims to develop and validate the first nationally standardized questionnaire to assess these risks and support public health policies.
Research Evolution of maxillary expansion in patients with cleft lip and palate
Silvia Railean1, Cristina Poștaru1*, Svetlana Melnic2, Gheorghe Bordeniuc3
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.08
The craniofacial orthodontist who is part of the multidisciplinary team evaluating children with cleft lip and palate plays an important role in examining the development of dental occlusion. Early surgical interventions in children with cleft lip and palate frequently cause occlusion disorders with a prevalence of anterior crossbite in 62%. The expansion of the maxilla is important for normalizing the morphology and correct symmetrical tooth eruption. The aim is to evaluate the evolution of maxillary expansion in patients with cleft lip and palate.
Research The role of odontogenic infection in the onset and evolution of focal disease
Sergiu Ciobanu*, Diana Marcu, Ion Roman, Olesea Musteață
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.09
The focal disease is a pathological condition characterized by a wide variety of functional disorders and organic tissue alterations, due to chronic foci of infection, from which various microbes, microbial toxins, and toxic products of septic tissue disintegration originate. According to the percentage distribution, 90% of the foci of the body are located in the cephalic region, and 10% in the rest of the body [17]. Research has shown that on the list of foci of infection, those in the oral cavity are in first place, with 93% of active foci being caused by teeth and their pathologies. Important clinical criteria that mark this fundamental difference of the odonto-periodontal focal infection include the profile of local inflammation, the level of the tissue hypersensitivity process, the level of the microbial load in the focus and, no less importantly, the reactivity of the body.
Research Developing and validating a questionnaire on knowledge and attitudes in health research ethics
Adriana Paladi1, Valentin Mîța2, Lilian Șaptefrați3
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.10
Research ethics and integrity are fundamental for safeguarding human participants and ensuring trustworthy scientific practices. Understanding researchers’ knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding ethical standards is important for all health researchers, but particularly relevant for early-career researchers. While several international instruments exist to evaluate specific aspects of research ethics, such as plagiarism, organizational climate, or responsible conduct of research, a multidimensional and contextually relevant tool is required.
Research The iCREATE registry: a model for strengthening injury surveillance in the Republic of Moldova
Angela Cazacu-Stratu1*, Svetlana Cociu1, Patricia Maria Marga2, Dumitru Cartaleanu1, Diana Dulf2, Serghei Cebanu1
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.11
Injuries represent a major public health issue, causing approximately 16,000 deaths globally each day (10% of all deaths), which is 32% more than the combined total caused by malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. Over the past 15 years, the WHO and regional initiatives have supported the piloting of trauma registries in low- and middle-income countries as essential tools for monitoring, planning, and prevention.
Research Emergency care for trauma patients in the red zone: clinical experience from 2024
Tatiana Malacinschi-Codreanu*, Larisa Rezneac, Raed Habach, Eugenia Ciubotaru, Natalia Mocanu
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.06
The traumatized patient with signs of shock remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality, requiring rapid diagnosis and multidisciplinary management. This study evaluates clinical, paraclinical, and therapeutic aspects of trauma patients admitted with shock signs in the red zone of the Emergency Department of the Institute of Emergency Medicine during 2024.
Review Micronutrient needs and supplementation strategies during pregnancy
Maria Cemortan*, Irina Sagaidac, Olga Cernetchi
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.12
Micronutrient deficiencies during pregnancy remain a major global public health concern, with implications for maternal health, fetal development, and long-term child outcomes. International organizations such as the WHO and FIGO have issued evidence-based guidelines on micronutrient supplementation, which are increasingly being adapted into national protocols.
Review Thromboprophylaxis in pregnancy, delivery and puerperium: a review of literature and current guidelines
Corina Cardaniuc*, Irina Sagaidac
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.13
Venous thromboembolism is one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. Pregnancy induces a hypercoagulable state as an adaptive mechanism to prevent hemorrhage during childbirth. These physiological changes significantly increase the risk of venous thromboembolism – by up to six-fold during pregnancy and up to 10-fold during the postpartum period compared to the non-pregnant population. Given these risks, proper identification of patients who may benefit from thromboprophylaxis is essential to improve maternal outcomes.
Review Pregnancy-related inflammatory markers and their association with perinatal mental illness: a systematic review
Larisa Boronin*, Jana Chihai, Igor Nastas
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.14
This study investigates the relationship between immune dysregulation and perinatal mental disorders by analyzing clinical data and biomarker profiles in pregnant individuals with varying severity of psychiatric symptoms. Understanding these associations may support the development of early screening tools and targeted interventions to improve maternal and infant mental health outcomes.
Review Advances in disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis: global updates and a regional comparison between the Republic of Moldova and Romania
Anna Belenciuc1,2*, Olesea Odainic2, Marina Sangheli1, Elena Manole1, Carmen Adella Sîrbu3,4,5, Vitalie Lisnic1
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.15
The therapeutic landscape of multiple sclerosis has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades. The paradigm has shifted from reliance on moderate-efficacy, first-generation injectable therapies toward earlier adoption of high-efficacy disease-modifying treatments, particularly in relapsing forms of MS. This evolution reflects an increasing focus on early intensive treatment strategies aimed at preserving long-term neurological function and brain health.
Review Correlation between pathogenetic factors and vascular endothelial damage in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Eugeniu Russu1,2, Liliana Groppa1, Lia Chișlari1, Svetlana Agachi1, Marius Semionov1, Chiril Nartea1, Iosif Leanca1, Artemie Pastuhov1
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.16
Systemic rheumatoid vasculitis accounts for 1 to 5% of complications seen in rheumatoid arthritis, while autopsy studies report an average of 23% incidence. This enormous difference in numbers emphasizes the rate of misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis of systemic rheumatoid vasculitis. It mainly affects people with a median age of 65 years. It is particularly noteworthy, as systemic rheumatoid vasculitis has a high mortality and relapse rate. Also, the multifactorial aetiology: cytokines/immune cells and other particles determines clinical complexity of this type of angiitis
Case study Psoriasis vulgaris and B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma: a complex case with rare cephalic localization
Mihaela Rotari1*, Mircea Bețiu1, Sanda Buruiană2, Valeria Pînzaru3, Valeriu David4, Lilian Șaptefrați5
https://doi.org/10.52645/MJHS.2026.1.20
Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory condition and is considered a potential risk factor for the development of hematologic malignancies, particularly in the context of immunosuppressive therapy and T-cell dysfunction. B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas are neoplasms of the lymphatic system with variable clinical manifestations, most commonly presenting with peripheral lymphadenopathy. Primary localization in the soft tissues of the head, with bone invasion, is rare.