Translational Research in Anatomy (Sep 2022)
Five vascular variations in a male cadaver: An anatomical case report
Abstract
Background: In most cases, the right inferior phrenic artery originates as a posterolateral branch of the abdominal aorta at T12 and the superior mesenteric artery stems as a second ventral branch of the abdominal aorta at L1. The proper hepatic artery (a branch of the common hepatic artery) bifurcates into the right and the left hepatic arteries. The superior suprarenal artery arises from the inferior phrenic artery; the middle suprarenal artery from the abdominal aorta; and the inferior suprarenal artery from the renal artery. The brachial artery divides into its two terminal branches, i.e., the radial and ulnar arteries in the cubital fossa. Numerous variations have been reported deviating from these most common patterns however, variations in all these arteries have not been reported so far in a single cadaver. The left superior suprarenal artery originating from the left renal artery has not been documented yet. Methods: The vascular variations were noted at the time of dissection done on a formalin-fixed male cadaver. The measurements like length and diameter of arteries were done by Vernier caliper, and the height of the cadaver was taken by using a measuring tape. Acrylic paint was used to paint the arteries for a clear view. Then, the variations were photographed. Case description: The case in concern is that of a male cadaver documented to have five distinct vascular anatomical variations. The identified variations include: • the right inferior phrenic artery originating from the celiac trunk; • the superior mesenteric artery originating just distal to the celiac trunk with a gap of only 5mm; • the right hepatic artery originating from the superior mesenteric artery; • the right and the left middle suprarenal arteries branching from corresponding renal arteries, and the left superior suprarenal artery arising from the left renal artery; and • the right brachial artery dividing into radial and ulnar arteries very close to its origin. Conclusion: Taking note of the variation in origins of the right inferior phrenic artery and the right hepatic artery is important for conducting transcatheter arterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma. Similarly, the celiac trunk at a higher position is more prone to compression by the median arcuate ligament. The higher termination of the right brachial artery affects blood pressure measurement and management in fracture of the humerus. Futher, all these variations are to be duly considered during angiography to avoid misinterpretation and surgery to avoid untoward bleeding.
