MORPHOMETRIC STUDY OF ARCH OF AORTA AND ITS BRANCHES

Aim: The purpose of this study is to understand the anatomical characteristics of arch of aorta and orientations of its major branches. Materials and methods: 60 male cadavers were dissected for arch of aorta and its branches namely brachiocephalic truck, left common carotid and left subclavian arteries. Height of arch of aorta was measured from upper surface of body of sternum. Distances of site of origin of brachiocephalic trunk, left common carotid artery and left subclavian artery were measured from the mid-vertebral line. Angles formed between arch of aorta and its major branches were measured. Inner diameter of the arch of aorta was measured at its commencement and termination. Inner diameters of the three major branches were also measured at their respective origins. The data so obtained was statistically analysed for range, mean and standard deviation. Results: Mean height of summit of arch of aorta from sternal angle was 39.98 ± 10.05 mm (range 23 to 66 mm). Origin of brachiocephalic trunk deviated by an average of 1.6 ± 7.53 mm on right side, left common carotid artery origin deviated by an average of 10.28 ± 8.69 mm on left side and left subclavian artery origin deviated by an average of 20.65 ± 9.65 mm on left side from mid-vertebral line. Average angles formed by brachiocephalic trunk, left common carotid artery and left subclavian artery with the arch of aorta were 94.79 ± 17.77 degree, 82.44 ± 14.95 degree and 99.71 ± 13.68 degree respectively. Average inner diameter of arch of aorta at its commencement was 20.02 ± 3.26 mm and at termination was 15.88 ± 2.53 mm. Average inner diameters of brachiocephalic trunk, left common carotid artery and left subclavian artery were 9.43 ± 2.17 mm, 6.4 ± 1.22 mm and 7.62 ± 1.76 mm respectively. Conclusion: Knowledge of morphometry of arch of aorta and its major branches shall be helpful for surgeons for performing safe and effective endovascular surgeries.