Course

Subclavian steal phenomenon — vertebrobasilar symptoms, Doppler clues, and vessel imaging (Advanced)

Advanced course: subclavian steal can reduce vertebrobasilar flow during arm activity, causing dizziness or posterior circulation symptoms. Learn the mechanism, ultrasound/Doppler clues, and how CTA/MRA evaluates vessels

FoundationsCaregiver, SurvivorAdvanced55 minPlain (6–8)

Educational only

Educational only — not medical advice.

What you'll learn

  • Understand subclavian steal as flow reversal affecting vertebral artery
  • Recognize symptom triggers (arm exertion + dizziness) as a clue
  • Understand Doppler/ultrasound findings at a high level
  • Know what CTA/MRA may be used for and what questions to ask

Practice check

Check your understanding

A few untimed questions. Pick an answer to see instant feedback, then continue to the next lesson.

0 of 3 answered

Question 1

1. Some posterior circulation symptoms can be triggered by reduced flow rather than a single clot.

Question 2

2. Subclavian steal involves…

Question 3

3. A useful test concept is…