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Mysterious cervical arteries: Why is the location of the vertebral arteries so important?
The vertebral artery is one of the important arteries in the neck. It usually originates from the subclavian artery, travels upward along both sides of the neck, and finally converges in the skull to form the basilar artery. These arteries not only supply blood to the upper spinal cord, brainstem, and cerebellum and back of the brain, but are also a major component of the basal vertebral vascular system. However, the anatomy and possible pathologies of these arteries are not well known to most people.
Structure of vertebral arteries
The vertebral artery usually branches from the subclavian artery in the posterior and superior aspects of both sides, then enters along the transverse process of the cervical vertebrae, and then enters the skull through the first cervical vertebra (C1), where it converges with the vertebral artery on the opposite side to form the basilar artery. The basilar artery is the main blood supply to the brainstem and is connected to the Circle of Willis, which provides blood supply to other brain areas when the carotid artery is damaged.
The supply of the vertebral arteries is not limited to the neck, but also extends deep into the brain, demonstrating the importance of its anatomical location.
Anatomical areas of vertebral arteries
The vertebral arteries can be divided into four parts:
- First segment (anterior foraminal segment): located between the scalene anterior and longus colli muscles.
- Hole section: the transverse hole passing through C6 to C2.
- Outer diameter section (annular vertebral section): Enter from the transverse foramen of C2.
- Inner diameter segment (intracranial segment): passes through the dura mater and further supplies to the brain.
The intracranial diameter of the vertebral artery is approximately 3.17 mm, and the left vertebral artery is usually longer than the right.
Variability of vertebral arteries
In many patients, significant changes in the size and shape of the vertebral arteries are found. Studies have shown that the diameter of the vertebral arteries on the left and right sides may be asymmetrical, and some patients may even have hypoplasia of the vertebral arteries on one side. These variations will affect clinical diagnosis and treatment, especially when performing spine-related surgeries.
Function of vertebral arteries
The function of the vertebral artery is to supply necessary blood to the upper part of the spine, brainstem, cerebellum, and back of the brain. An arterial accident, such as an arterial dissection or stroke, may result in a posterior circulation stroke, a condition that may cause permanent harm to the patient.
Damage of the vertebral arteries is not only a problem of blood flow, but also a crisis of the entire brain function.
Clinical significance and diagnostic methods
Clinically, the status of the vertebral arteries is typically assessed using a variety of diagnostic tools, including Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, and phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PC-MRI). These technologies accurately measure blood flow velocity to assess vessel health, but results may vary based on variability.
Conclusion
The anatomical characteristics and physiological functions of the vertebral arteries demonstrate their importance to our overall nervous system. By gaining a deeper understanding of the structure and variability of these arteries, medical professionals can more effectively diagnose and treat diseases related to the spinal arteries. So, have you ever considered the complexity of your own body’s internal structure, especially the role such an important artery plays in your health?
