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Updated: Oct 8, 2025
Focal Cerebral Ischemia Model by Endovascular Suture Occlusion of the Middle Cerebral Artery in the Rat
Published on: February 5, 2011
Internal carotid artery anatomy - not always straightforward
Maroš Rudnay1,2, Gabriela Rjašková1, Viera Lehotská2
1Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, L. Pasteur University Hospital, Košice, Slovakia.
Objectives:
To present a rare variant of internal carotid artery anatomy.
Methods:
Case report presenting CT angiography finding of internal carotid anatomy variant.
Results:
We present the case of an unusual origin of the occipital artery from cervical portion of the internal carotid artery as an incidental finding during CT angiography of the carotid arteries. In discussion, we discuss the possible embryological basis, incidence and prevalence of such finding and its possible clinical implications.
Conclusion:
One of the specific aspects of carotid arteries is their straightforward anatomy - the cervical portion of internal carotid artery, unlike the external carotid, does not give origin to any branches - this aspect is even used as a highlight for orientation, e.g. during ultrasound examination. However, although rare, variants exist, and sometimes can have clinical importance - in the endovascular access or surgical treatment.
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