Anatomical Variations of the Subclavian Artery and its Branching Patterns: A Literature Review

Abstract

The human body exhibits a variety of morphological patterns. These variances are rather common and frequently have no discernible effect on the health of the patient. Precise awareness of typical anatomical differences leads to better clinical practice outcomes. Anatomical variations are usually discovered during imaging prior to operation and surgery, as well as routine dissection. Furthermore, scientific methods for identifying anatomical variances include observational studies employing cadaveric dissection, medical imaging, and evidence-based anatomy. This literature provides an overview of the research on the variations of the subclavian artery anatomically, providing insights into its origin, course, branching patterns and clinical importance. Variations in the subclavian artery among the quite common anatomical variations. If they wish to perform procedures in the neck and chest region, surgeons, radiologists, and other medical professionals must understand these anatomical variations. Certain patients may benefit from the identification and visualization of these abnormalities through the use of imaging tests such as CT or angiography. The most common variations are aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA), bicarotid trunk, high origin of the subclavian artery, and variant branching patterns. The courses and associated anomalies of subclavian artery in these variations is recorded.