A study of the branching pattern of aortic arch.

ABSTRACT

The purpose of the present study is the description of the aortic arch branches variation in order to offer useful data to anatomists, radiologists, vascular, neck and thorax surgeons. Methods: A total 46 Indian adult cadavers were used. The authors investigated anatomical variation of the aortic arch and its major branches. Results: The three major branches directly originate from the aortic arch in 38 (82.6 %) ; the 3 ( 6.5%) remaining aortic arch showed only two branches and 5 (10.9 %) aortic arch showed the direct arch origin of left vertebral artery. Interpretation & conclusion: Despite the fact that the variations in question are usually asymptomatic, they may cause dyspnoea, dysphasia, intermittent claudication, misinterpretation of radiology examinations and complications during neck and thorax surgery. This study would provide an anatomical basis to assist surgeons in performing safe vascular surgery involving the aortic arch and its branches.