Vertebral artery

The vertebral artery (pronunciation: /vərˈtɪbrəl ˈɑːrtəri/) is one of the major arteries of the neck.

Etymology

The term "vertebral" is derived from the Latin word "vertebra", which means a joint of the spine. The term "artery" comes from the Greek word "arteria", meaning windpipe, as the arteries were thought to carry air.

Anatomy

The vertebral artery is a significant artery in the neck. It branches off the subclavian artery, then courses up the neck through the transverse foramen of each cervical vertebra. It merges with the opposite vertebral artery to form the basilar artery, a critical vessel that supplies blood to the brain.

Related Terms

Subclavian artery: A major artery in the upper chest, below the clavicle, from which the vertebral artery originates.
Transverse foramen: A small foramen in each cervical vertebra, through which the vertebral artery passes.
Basilar artery: Formed by the fusion of the two vertebral arteries, it supplies blood to the brain.

Clinical Significance

The vertebral artery can be involved in certain medical conditions, such as vertebral artery dissection and vertebral artery stenosis. These conditions can lead to significant complications, including stroke.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Vertebral artery
Wikipedia's article - Vertebral artery

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Vertebral artery