Morphological Study of Subclavian Arteries in Human Cadaver
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64252/vj54cm92Keywords:
Subclavian artery, cadaveric dissection, morphological study, anatomical variation, arteria lusoriaAbstract
The subclavian arteries are the primary conduits of blood supply to the upper extremities, brain, thorax, and associated structures. Their anatomical course and branching pattern exhibit considerable variations, some of which have profound clinical significance. This study was designed to investigate the morphology of the subclavian arteries in human cadavers with detailed documentation of their origin, branching pattern, asymmetries, and anomalies. Dissection-based evaluation was conducted on preserved cadavers following standard anatomical protocols. Data were collected on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria, using digital calipers, protractors, and photographic documentation.
Objective: To study the morphological characteristics and variations of the subclavian arteries in human cadavers.
Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on 30 embalmed human cadavers (60 subclavian arteries) in the Department of Anatomy at Santosh Medical College & Hospital, Ghaziabad, NCR Delhi. Morphological parameters such as origin, course, branching pattern, and presence of variations were observed through careful dissection.
Results:The present cadaveric study examined 60 subclavian arteries from 30 adult human cadavers to document their origin, branching patterns, morphometry, and anatomical variations. The right subclavian artery arose predominantly from the brachiocephalic trunk (93.3%), with a minority (6.7%) originating directly from the arch of the aorta. The left subclavian artery arose from the arch of the aorta in most cases (96.7%), with a single case (3.3%) showing origin from a common carotid trunk. Thus, while the majority conformed to classical descriptions, aberrant origins such as arteria lusoria were observed.
Conclusion: Subclavian artery variations are not uncommon and hold significant implications for surgical and interventional procedures. Detailed knowledge of these variations is essential for clinicians to minimize iatrogenic complications.
