Anatomic variations of aortic arch branches and relationship with diameter of aortic arch by 64-row CT angiography
Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026

Ultrasound Imaging of the Thoracic and Abdominal Aorta in Mice to Determine Aneurysm Dimensions
Published on: March 8, 2019
Abolhassan Shakeri1, Masoud Pourisa1, Abdolreza Deldar1
1Department of Radiology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
Insights
Anatomic variations in the Aortic Arch (AA) branching patterns were studied in 503 individuals. No significant correlation was found between AA variations, sex, or aortic arch diameter, aiding surgical planning.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Radiology
- Cardiovascular Science
Background:
- The Aortic Arch (AA) exhibits diverse branching patterns.
- Understanding these variations is crucial for surgical and interventional procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the anatomic variations of Aortic Arch (AA) branches.
- To investigate the relationship between AA branching patterns and aortic arch diameter.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive analytical study involving 503 participants.
- Utilized 64-row computed tomography angiography (CT angiography) for imaging.
- 3D reconstructions and morphometric measurements of the AA and its branches were performed.
Main Results:
- The most common AA branching pattern was observed in 68.8% of specimens.
- No significant correlation was found between sex and the type of AA variations (p = 0.073).
- No significant correlation was found between AA variations and aortic arch diameter at either the early (p = 0.446) or last branching areas (p = 0.887).
Conclusions:
- Diverse branching patterns of the Aortic Arch (AA) exist.
- Morphometric data from this study can aid clinicians in performing safer surgeries and interventional procedures in the superior mediastinum.
Abstract:
There are different variations in the branching pattern of the Aortic Arch (AA). The aim of the present study was to study and evaluation of anatomic variations of aortic arch branches and relationship with diameter of aortic arch by 64-row computed tomography angiography (CT angiography). This descriptive analytical study was performed on 503 human by using of CT Angiography (CTA) to evaluation of anatomic variations of aortic arch. Patients underwent three dimensional restoration of aorta arch images and its branches using MIP and VRT software following intravascular injection of vein material (100 mL) and conducting CT. Then, kind of their divisions were registered. Additionally, diameter of aorta arch was measured at its cross section immediately before and after separation of its first and last branches, respectively. This study was performed on 503 specimen that 269 (53.5%) was male and 234 (46.5%) was female. The most common AA branching pattern was found in 346 (68.8%) of 503 specimens. There was no significant correlation between sex and type of variations (p = 0.073). There was no significant correlation between type of AA variations and AA diameter in the early branching area (p = 0.446) and there is no significant correlation between type ofAA variations and AA diameter in the last branching area (p = 0.887). The different branching patterns of the AA observed in this study and the morphometric measurements taken can assist doctors in performing safe and effective surgeries in the superior mediastinum and also a safe interventional procedures.
Related Concept Videos
The Arch of Aorta
Encircling the heart, the coronary arteries form a ring-like structure before...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
The Aorta
The average diameter of the aorta is approximately 2-3 cm, but the size can vary depending on the section of the aorta and the individual's age, sex, and body size. The aorta is...
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Aneurysm I: Introduction
Thoracic Aorta

