Vertebral artery

A major artery that supplies blood to the brain and spinal cord.

The vertebral artery is a pair of arteries located in the neck, branching from the subclavian arteries. These arteries ascend through the foramina in the transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae and merge to form the basilar artery at the base of the skull. They play a critical role in the vascular supply to the posterior regions of the brain.

Terminologia Anatomica

arteria vertebralis

System

Cardiovascular system

Function

The primary function of the vertebral artery is to deliver oxygenated blood to the posterior circulation of the brain, which includes the brainstem, cerebellum, and parts of the occipital lobe. Blood from the vertebral arteries is essential for maintaining normal physiological functions such as coordination, balance, and the regulation of vital autonomic functions managed by the brainstem. Additionally, the arteries also contribute to the blood supply of the spinal cord, supporting the neural integrity required for sensory and motor functions. Any compromise to the flow of blood through these arteries can lead to significant neurological deficits, including dizziness, loss of balance, and in severe cases, stroke.

Location

The vertebral arteries originate from the subclavian arteries, positioned laterally in the neck just above the first rib. As they travel upward, they pass through the transverse foramina of the cervical vertebrae, which allow for their protected passage along the neck. Specifically, the first through sixth cervical vertebrae harbor these foramina. Upon entering the cranial cavity through the foramen magnum at the base of the skull, the two vertebral arteries join together to create the basilar artery, which supplies blood to further important brain structures.

Did You Know?

Damage to the vertebral artery can result from neck injuries, leading to a condition known as vertebral artery dissection, which can be life-threatening.
The vertebral artery is essential for the distribution of blood to key areas of the brain responsible for numerous functions, including balance and coordination.
Individuals with variations in cervical vertebrae can experience unique patterns of blood supply from the vertebral arteries.
In some animals, such as certain reptiles, a similar structure plays a role in cooling their brain, highlighting an evolutionary aspect of vertebral artery functions.