Bilateral absence of inferior thyroid artery: A rare variation

ABSTRACT

Background: There are reports regarding the origin of the inferior thyroid artery from the vertebral artery and internal thoracic artery. The absence of inferior thyroid artery has been reported in studies, but most of these studies have reported the unilateral absence of inferior thyroid artery. Objective: The objective of the study was to identify and variations in origin (especially presence or absence of artery) and branches of inferior thyroid artery. Materials and Methods: A total of 96 cadavers were dissected and observed for origin and branching pattern of inferior thyroid artery. Results: Inferior thyroid artery originated from thyrocervical trunk in 94 cadavers, in one cadaver there are bilateral absence of inferior thyroid artery and in one case unilateral absence of Rt. inferior thyroid artery. Multiple variations of relations of recurrent laryngeal nerve and inferior thyroid artery are found. Conclusion: Knowledge of arterial variation is extremely important while carrying out surgical procedures in the neck region. During operations of the thyroid gland, surgeries of neck region, carotid angiographies any misinterpretation can lead to life-threatening complications. This study is not only focusing on the presence of different branching pattern but also the absence of major arteries. Studies like these can help surgeons to look closely for variations in both cases either presence or absence of main arteries.