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Modified Octopus Technique for Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Published on: August 1, 2025
Bovine aortic arch: a novel association with thoracic aortic dilation
C D Malone1, T H Urbania, S E S Crook
1Department of Radiology, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143-0628, USA. michael.hope@ucsf.edu
Clinical Radiology
|November 11, 2011
Summary
Bovine arch, an anatomical variation, is linked to thoracic aortic aneurysm in older patients and when aortic dilation involves the arch. This finding suggests bovine arch may be a risk factor for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Anatomical Variations
- Aortic Diseases
Background:
- Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a serious condition with significant morbidity and mortality.
- Bovine arch is a common anatomical variation in aortic arch branching.
- The relationship between bovine arch and TAA requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if a bovine arch is associated with thoracic aortic aneurysm.
- To explore potential risk factors for aortic dilation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of CT and MRI scans from 191 patients with dilated thoracic aortas and 391 controls.
- Bovine arch defined by specific origins of the left common carotid and innominate arteries.
- Chi-square test used for statistical analysis.
Main Results:
- A trend of increased bovine arch prevalence in patients with dilated aortas (26.2% vs. 20.5%).
- Statistically significant association found in patients over 70 years old (p=0.019).
- Significant association observed when aortic dilation involved the aortic arch (p=0.003).
Conclusions:
- Bovine arch is associated with aortic dilation, particularly in older individuals.
- The presence of a bovine arch is linked to aortic arch dilation.
- Bovine arch may represent a risk factor for developing thoracic aortic aneurysm.
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