Abstract
We present a pictorial review of anomalous origin of the left vertebral artery observed in 5 patients imaged in our after-hours trauma radiology unit within a period of 7 days. We raise the question of whether the incidence of anomalous origin of the left vertebral artery quoted in the radiology literature as 5% is really that low, and suggest that the current increased frequency of cross-sectional imaging could elevate the observed incidence of this anomaly in practice. We discuss the implications of vertebral artery anomalies in the endovascular treatment of aortic arch injuries.
Highlights
We present a pictorial review of anomalous origin of the left vertebral artery observed in 5 patients imaged in our after-hours trauma radiology unit within a period of 7 days
We raise the question of whether the incidence of anomalous origin of the left vertebral artery quoted in the radiology literature as 5% is really that low, and suggest that the current increased frequency of cross-sectional imaging could elevate the observed incidence of this anomaly in practice
We discuss the implications of vertebral artery anomalies in the endovascular treatment of aortic arch injuries
Summary
We present a pictorial review of anomalous origin of the left vertebral artery observed in 5 patients imaged in our after-hours trauma radiology unit within a period of 7 days. The incidence of anomalous origin of the left vertebral artery from the aortic arch ranges between 1% and 5.8%.1,2. This anomaly has important implications for thoracic surgery and interventional procedures. During a one-week period, we observed 5 patients with an anomalous origin of the left vertebral artery. They were all imaged in our afterhours radiology unit.
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