Vertebral artery

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

• Basilar artery
• Circle of Willis
• Subclavian artery
• Cerebrovascular system

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

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  3D Anterior-Posterior view of the Vertebral Artery

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  3D Lateral view of the Vertebral Artery

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  Sagittal section showing the Right Vertebral Artery

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  Historical illustration of the Vertebral Artery

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  Diagram of the Circle of Willis

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  Dissection of the Suboccipital Triangle