Common trunk of the posterior intercostal arteries from the thoracic aorta: anatomical variation, frequency, and importance in individuals

Abstract

It is important to recognize this anatomical variation when the number of origins of the posterior intercostal arteries from the thoracic aorta due to the multiple common trunk present can be reduced, as their origins and vascular territories are involved in primary diseases of the thoracic aorta, like atherosclerosis, aneurysm, or dissection that lead to serious complications. For example, in thoracoabdominal aneurysm repair, reimplantation of the posterior intercostal arteries is recommended to avoid potential ischemic injury to the supplying areas, especially to the spinal cord.

A Case of Multiple Posterior Intercostal Artery Common Trunks in Conjunction with Additional Arterial Variations

“…Only a few comprehensive reviews and case reports are presented in the literature on the topic of CTs of PIAs [ 4 , 8 , 13 – 15 ]. While cases have been reported, the current case seems to stand out among the rest for its rarity and clinical significance.…”

“…Second, based on the observed literature, this is the first case report of 5 CTs present in one individual. Cases with up to 4 CTs have been found and presented, but even these seem to be rare phenomena [ 8 ]. It has been reported that CTs are more frequent in the upper ICS than in the lower ICS, and the most frequent site of origin occurs at the level of the 3rd ICS or between the 3rd and 4th ICS [ 8 , 21 , 22 ].…”

“…As the PIA travels in the ICS, it divides into two major divisions, which in turn gives off minor branches to supply numerous structures. These branches supply structures such as intercostal, pectoral, serratus, and deep back muscles, as well as the spinal cord and associated nerve roots, mammary glands, and skin [ 8 , 9 ]. The right bronchial artery, which supplies areas of the right lung, often originates from the 3rd PIA on the right side [ 10 – 12 ].…”

“…The prevalence of two or more CTs has been reported to be as high as 70% [ 8 ]. Higher numbers of CTs are less likely to be seen, and more than 4 CTs is a rare phenomenon.…”

“…Higher numbers of CTs are less likely to be seen, and more than 4 CTs is a rare phenomenon. CTs are more frequent in the upper ICS (20-50%) than in the lower ICS (10-15%) [ 8 ].…”