Incidental Detection of the Accessory Inferior Thyroid Artery

The accessory inferior thyroid artery, an often incidental finding in medical practice, is a small but clinically significant vessel supplying the thyroid gland. Its anatomy is marked by considerable variability, with origins ranging from the thyrocervical trunk, brachiocephalic trunk, or subclavian artery. This article explores the clinical implications of this artery, emphasizing its role in thyroid surgery, angiography, interventional radiology, and diagnostic imaging. Its presence can impact surgical procedures by posing risks of intraoperative bleeding if not identified and managed appropriately. Radiologists must be attentive to recognize it in imaging studies to prevent diagnostic inaccuracies. Additionally, its variable presence may hint at underlying endocrine disorders in patients. The variability and clinical significance of the accessory inferior thyroid artery highlight the importance of meticulous preoperative planning and interdisciplinary collaboration in optimizing patient care.