A comprehensive review of the vertebral artery anatomy

•VA anatomy, branches, and perforators are key in managing related diseases.•One should be aware of frequent variations of VA anatomy.•Recognizing dangerous anastomosis is crucial in planning treatment strategies. The vertebral arteries (VA) play a critical role by supplying nearly one-third of the...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Neuro-chirurgie 2024-05, Vol.70 (3), p.101518-101518, Article 101518
Main Authors: Peeters, Jean-Baptiste, Idriceanu, Tania, El Hage, Gilles, Martin, Tristan, Salaud, Céline, Champagne, Pierre-Olivier, Bojanowski, Michel W.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Anatomy
Cadaver
Endovascular
Endovascular Procedures - methods
Humans
Surgery
Variants
Vertebral artery
Vertebral Artery - anatomy & histology
Vertebral Artery - surgery
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Summary:•VA anatomy, branches, and perforators are key in managing related diseases.•One should be aware of frequent variations of VA anatomy.•Recognizing dangerous anastomosis is crucial in planning treatment strategies. The vertebral arteries (VA) play a critical role by supplying nearly one-third of the brain’s blood flow, predominantly contributing to the posterior circulation. These arteries may need to be exposed in a various cranial and cervical procedures and offers access to investigate or treat vascular lesions by endovascular means related to the posterior circulation. Given its complex anatomy, which is subject to numerous variations, and its role in supplying vital brain regions, a thorough understanding of the VA’s anatomy is paramount for any related procedure. To provide a comprehensive overview of vertebral artery anatomy and its relevance in contemporary clinical practice. Dissection of the entire vertebral artery length using cadaveric specimen, combined with a comprehensive literature review. The vertebral artery can be subdivided into four segments. Each of these segments has its own unique topographic anatomy with its variations, anastomoses, and significance in surgery. As surgical and endovascular techniques continue to evolve with technological improvements, we are now more equipped than ever to manage complex lesions involving the VA. However, with its increasingly complexity comes the necessity for a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the VA. Possessing the detailed knowledge of the VA is vital for the successful execution of any procedure involving it.
ISSN:0028-3770
1773-0619
DOI:10.1016/j.neuchi.2023.101518