Final answer:
The left subclavian artery obstruction causes upper extremity claudication and blood pressure discrepancies, treated by surgical bypass or stent placement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The obstruction referred to is of the left subclavian artery, which arises from the aortic arch and is responsible for supplying blood to the arms, chest, shoulders, back, and central nervous system. Symptoms and signs (S/S) of this obstruction include upper extremity claudication, which is pain in the muscles of the upper arm due to inadequate blood supply, as well as a discrepancy in blood pressure between the upper extremities. The treatment (Tx) for this condition typically involves surgical bypass or the insertion of an endovascular stent to restore proper blood flow. The brachiocephalic artery is found only on the right side of the body and gives rise to the right subclavian artery as well as the right common carotid artery, which supply blood to the head, neck, upper limb, and wall of the thoracic region. In contrast, the left subclavian artery comes directly from the aortic arch. When there is an obstruction, the partially occluded artery can't pump sufficient quantities of blood, leading to symptoms like claudication or potential muscle spasm from severe stress.