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Is anomalous origin of the left vertebral artery indeed a rare finding?


B van der Merwe
C Ackermann
S Scheepers
S Moosa

Abstract

We present a pictorial review of anomalous origin of the left vertebral artery observed in 5 patients imaged in our after-hours trauma radiology unit
within a period of 7 days. We raise the question of whether the incidence of anomalous origin of the left vertebral artery quoted in the radiology literature as 5% is really that low, and suggest that the current increased frequency of cross-sectional imaging could elevate the observed incidence of this anomaly in practice. We discuss the implications of vertebral artery anomalies in the endovascular treatment of aortic arch injuries.

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eISSN: 2078-6778
print ISSN: 1027-202X