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Neurology India
Medknow Publications on behalf of the Neurological Society of India
ISSN: 0028-3886 EISSN: 0028-3886
Vol. 57, No. 4, 2009, pp. 447-452
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Bioline Code: ni09126
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge
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Neurology India, Vol. 57, No. 4, 2009, pp. 447-452
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Suboccipital segment of the vertebral artery: A cadaveric study
Muralimohan, S.; Pande, Anil; Vasudevan, M. C. & Ramamurthi, Ravi
Abstract
Objective: To study the course, relationships, branches and possible anomalies of the vertebral
artery in the suboccipital region in adult Indian cadavers. Materials and Methods: Twenty-one suboccipital segment
vertebral artery specimens from embalmed, Indian adult cadavers were dissected and studied. Dissection was performed using
microsurgical instruments and was carried out from the skin up to the vertebral artery in layers. The course, relationships
and the branches of the vertebral artery were studied and measurements were taken using Vernier calipers. The readings obtained
were corroborated with the measurements derived from the digital images using a computer. Observations: All the
vertebral arteries had a tortuous course and were covered with rich venous plexuses. None of the specimens had an anomalous course.
The artery was divided into a vertical segment (Vv) between C2 and C1 vertebra and a horizontal segment (Vh) from the C1 transverse
foramina to its dural entry. The mean diameter of the artery was 4.8mm. The shortest distance of Vv segment from the dural tube was
16.1mm, and the distance from the C2 ganglion was 7.2mm. The average length of the Vv segment was 15mm and the average length of the
Vh segment was 35.6mm. The average of the shortest distance between the vertebral artery and the midline was 13.4mm.
Conclusion: The vertebral artery has a tortuous course and is prone to accidental iatrogenic injury, which
can result in devastating neurological sequelae depending on contralateral vertebral artery flow. A thorough anatomical
knowledge of this segment is essential for the surgeon who intends to operate in this area.
Keywords
Cadaveric study, suboccipital cavernous sinus, vertebral artery
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