Accessory internal thoracic artery and its clinical significance
G Paraskevas1, B Papaziogas, K Natsis
1Department of Anatomy, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece. g_paraskevas@yahoo.gr
Chirurgia (Bucharest, Romania : 1990)
|December 15, 2010
Summary
A rare accessory internal thoracic artery variant was identified in 4.54% of cadavers. Understanding this thoracic artery anatomy is crucial for surgeons performing coronary revascularization and pneumothorax procedures.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Vascular Anatomy
- Thoracic Anatomy
Background:
- The internal thoracic artery is vital for coronary artery bypass grafting.
- Anatomical variations of thoracic arteries can impact surgical procedures.
- Detailed anatomical knowledge is essential for thoracic surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the prevalence and anatomical course of the accessory internal thoracic artery.
- To highlight the clinical significance of this arterial variation in thoracic surgery.
Main Methods:
- Cadaveric dissection study.
- Analysis of 22 thoracic specimens.
- Morphometric evaluation of the accessory internal thoracic artery.
Main Results:
- The accessory internal thoracic artery was identified in 4.54% of the studied cadavers.
- This variant artery originates from the initial part of the internal thoracic artery.
- Its diameter can be comparable to the main internal thoracic artery trunk.
Conclusions:
- The accessory internal thoracic artery is a significant anatomical variation.
- Awareness of this variant is essential for thoracic surgeons during internal thoracic artery preparation for coronary revascularization.
- Knowledge of this artery is also important for thoracic drainage procedures and interpreting subclavian artery angiographies.
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