Vertebral artery

From WikiMD's medical encyclopedia

Artery of the neck and head



Vertebral artery

The vertebral artery is a major artery of the neck that supplies blood to the posterior part of the brain. It is one of the key components of the cerebrovascular system, playing a crucial role in the Circle of Willis, which is a circulatory anastomosis that supplies blood to the brain and surrounding structures.

3D view of the vertebral artery from an anterior-posterior perspective.

Anatomy

The vertebral artery originates from the subclavian artery and ascends through the transverse foramina of the cervical vertebrae, typically from C6 to C1. It then enters the foramen magnum of the skull to join the basilar artery.

3D lateral view of the vertebral artery.

Segments

The vertebral artery is divided into four segments:

  • V1: The pre-foraminal segment, which extends from the origin at the subclavian artery to the entry into the transverse foramen of C6.
  • V2: The foraminal segment, which travels through the transverse foramina of the cervical vertebrae.
  • V3: The atlantic segment, which extends from the exit of the transverse foramen of C1 to the entry into the foramen magnum.
  • V4: The intradural segment, which extends from the foramen magnum to the formation of the basilar artery.
Sagittal section showing the right vertebral artery.

Function

The vertebral arteries supply blood to the upper spinal cord, brainstem, cerebellum, and posterior part of the brain. They are crucial for maintaining the blood flow to these areas, especially in conjunction with the internal carotid arteries as part of the Circle of Willis.

Diagram of the Circle of Willis, showing the vertebral arteries.

Clinical significance

The vertebral artery can be involved in various medical conditions, such as vertebral artery dissection, which can lead to stroke. It is also a site for potential atherosclerosis, which can reduce blood flow to the brain.

Surgical considerations

In surgical procedures involving the neck, care must be taken to avoid damaging the vertebral artery, especially during operations on the cervical spine.

Dissection of the suboccipital triangle, showing the vertebral artery.

Related pages

References

  • Standring, S. (2016). Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st edition. Elsevier.
  • Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F., & Agur, A. M. R. (2013). Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 7th edition. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Vertebral_artery

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD