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Modified Radical Neck Dissection for Cervical Metastasis
Published on: February 20, 2026
High-riding innominate artery in neck surgery
Elisa Gil-Carcedo1, Luis M Gil-Carcedo, Luis A Vallejo
1Servicio de Otorrinolaringología y Patología Cérvico-Facial, Hospital Universitario Río Hortega, Valladolid, España. e.gilcarcedo@gmail.com
Acta Otorrinolaringologica Espanola
|May 17, 2011
Summary
We report two cases of aberrant innominate artery (IA) in the neck. Surgical imaging revealed the IA anterior to the airway, highlighting significant risks for cervical surgeries in such anatomical variations.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Anatomical Variations
- Surgical Risk Assessment
Background:
- The innominate artery (IA), or brachiocephalic trunk, is a major artery originating from the aortic arch.
- Aberrant IA positioning can lead to diagnostic and surgical challenges.
Observation:
- Two distinct cases of IA presenting in an unusual cervical position were identified.
- In one case, surgical imaging demonstrated the IA and its branches positioned anterior to the laryngotracheal axis.
Findings:
- The anatomical variation of a cervical innominate artery was confirmed in two patients.
- Surgical visualization provided detailed anatomical context of the aberrant IA relative to the airway.
Implications:
- Cervical surgeries in patients with a cervical IA carry a substantial risk of vascular injury.
- Awareness of this anatomical anomaly is crucial for pre-operative planning and patient safety in head and neck procedures.
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