Vertebral arteries

Vertebral arteries are major arteries of the neck. They branch from the subclavian arteries and ascend in the neck to supply the posterior part of the brain and spinal cord with oxygenated blood. They also provide blood to the upper spinal cord, brainstem, cerebellum, and posterior part of brain.

Anatomy

The vertebral arteries arise from the subclavian arteries. Each artery passes upward, from the upper part of the neck to the base of the skull, through the foramina in the transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae. The left and right vertebral arteries come together at the base of the brain to form the basilar artery, a critical vessel for supplying blood to the brain.

Function

The vertebral arteries carry blood to the posterior part of the brain, which includes the cerebellum, the brainstem, and the occipital lobes. These areas of the brain are responsible for various functions including balance, coordination, visual processing, and the control of many vital body functions such as heart rate and breathing.

Clinical significance

Diseases of the vertebral arteries can lead to significant health problems. For example, vertebral artery dissection is a condition in which a tear in the artery wall can lead to a stroke. Vertebral artery stenosis, or narrowing of the artery, can also lead to stroke or transient ischemic attack.

See also

• Carotid arteries
• Circle of Willis
• Stroke