ANOMALOUS LEFT VERTEBRAL ARTERY FROM ARCH OF AORTA: A THOUGHT FOR SURGEONS?

Arterial variations in the branching pattern of arch of aorta are uncommon and may occur as a result of developmental changes in the fusion and absorption of various pharyngeal arch arteries into the aortic sac. The present case report describes a finding in a male cadaver aged between 60- 65 years about the origin of left vertebral artery directly from the arch of aorta. Such variations should be kept in mind during surgical procedures in the superior mediastinum.