Variant origin of left vertebral artery

In anatomy, normality embraces a range of morphologies. It includes those that are more common and others called variations which are less frequent but not considered abnormal [1]. Arterial derangements within the thorax are common, complex and can assume many diverse forms. These derangements in origin and course of main vessels occurring either individually or in combination with other cardiovascular defects are mostly explainable on ontogenic basis, which can thus be blamed for a myriad of clinically relevant anomalies [2]. The major branches of arch of aorta are the great ways for blood supply to the head and upper limb, and are of particular interest in clinical angiography. The proximal segment of these branches and of the aortic arch is common sites for atherosclerosis with clinical consequences for blood supply to brain [3]. Anomalies of origin and distribution of these branches can cause changes in cerebral haemodynamics that may lead to cerebral abnormalities [4]. An understanding of the variability of vertebral artery remains most important in angiography and surgical procedures where an incompatible knowledge of anatomy can lead to complications [5]. According to the standard textbooks of anatomy, vertebral artery is the largest and most constant stem of subclavian artery, both in origin and distribution [6], arising from postero-superior aspect of its first part [7]. Rarely, it may arise directly from the arch of aorta. One such case was found in a male cadaver, Rajan Kumar SINGLA Tripta SHARMA Kanika SACHDEVA