Anatomical variation of the origin of the left vertebral artery from the arch of aorta – a case report

We present a case report whereby a variation in the origin of the left vertebral artery was seen, arising directly from the arch of aorta proximal to the origin of left subclavian artery. The diameter of this artery was less than that of its counterpart on the right which showed no variation in its origin. Accurate knowledge of the normal and variant arterial anatomy of the vertebral artery is important for vascular radiology and will provide an anatomical basis to assist surgeons in performing safe vascular surgery involving the arch of aorta and its branches. The relative literature, its potential embryologic development will be discussed in detail.