It is the branch of 1st part of subclavian artery and two in number (Rt & Lt).
Vertebral artery is divided into four part (from neck to head).
|
Part |
Name |
Extent |
|
V4 |
Intracranial part / Intradural part |
From foramen magnum → Lower border of pons |
|
V3 |
Atlanto-axial / Extracranial part |
From transverse foramen of C2 → Around C1 (atlas) → Entry into foramen magnum |
|
V2 |
Foraminal part |
Through transverse foramina of C6 to C2 |
|
V1 |
Pre-foraminal / Cervical part |
From subclavian artery → Transverse foramen of C6 |
Note: The vertebral artery does not pass through the transverse foramen of C7.
Note: Both vertebral, and Internal carotid artery are divided into four parts (from neck to head).
Intracranial part of vertebral artery have five branches:
1. Anterior spinal artery– Supply to the spinal cord.
2. Posterior spinal artery– Supply to the spinal cord.
3. Meningeal branch– to the meninges.
4. Medullary artery– Supply to the medulla oblongata.
5. Posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA)– Supply to the cerebellum.