Adamkiewicz

Adamkiewicz

Artery of Adamkiewicz (also known as the great anterior radiculomedullary artery or arteria radicularis magna) is a critical artery that supplies blood to the lower two-thirds of the spinal cord. This artery originates from a left or right posterior intercostal artery, which branches from the aorta, typically between the T9 and T12 vertebral levels, but can arise anywhere from T5 to L2. The artery of Adamkiewicz is of paramount importance due to its role in supplying the anterior spinal artery, which feeds the anterior two-thirds of the spinal cord, encompassing the areas responsible for motor and sensory function. Its significance is underscored in surgical and radiological procedures involving the spine and aorta, where inadvertent damage to this artery can lead to catastrophic outcomes such as paraplegia.

Anatomy

The artery of Adamkiewicz is characterized by its hairpin-like turn, known as the 'hairpin turn', shortly after its origin. This distinctive feature aids in its identification during angiographic procedures. The artery typically arises from the left side in the majority of individuals. After its origin, it ascends to join the anterior spinal artery, forming a crucial part of the spinal cord's blood supply.

Clinical Significance

The artery of Adamkiewicz is vital in the context of spinal surgery and aortic procedures. Its inadvertent damage or occlusion can lead to spinal cord ischemia and subsequent paraplegia, highlighting the importance of preoperative identification and preservation of this artery. Techniques such as magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and computed tomography angiography (CTA) are employed to visualize the artery preoperatively.

In conditions such as aortic dissection and aortic aneurysm, the integrity of the artery of Adamkiewicz can be compromised, leading to ischemic spinal cord injury. Awareness and preservation of this artery are crucial in the planning and execution of interventions involving the thoracic and abdominal aorta.

History

The artery of Adamkiewicz was named after Albert Adamkiewicz (1850–1921), a Polish pathologist who first described it in the late 19th century. His contributions to the understanding of the spinal cord's blood supply have had a lasting impact on neurosurgery and spinal surgery.

See Also

• Spinal cord
• Aorta
• Paraplegia
• Aortic dissection
• Aortic aneurysm