Incidental finding of a common origin of the carotid arteries: case report.

BACKGROUND

Understanding anatomical variations in the aortic arch is essential for clinical practice, particularly in cardiovascular, radiological, and surgical procedures.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This report describes a rare variant in the branching pattern of the aortic arch, identified during cadaveric dissection of 71-year-old female at the Department of Anatomy and Histology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn.

RESULTS

In this case, the left common carotid artery originated from the initial segment of the brachiocephalic trunk, resulting in a common origin of the carotid arteries. Only two branches arise directly from the aortic arch: a modified brachiocephalic trunk and the left subclavian artery.

CONCLUSIONS

This uncommon anatomical pattern has clinical implications for accurate diagnostic imaging, surgical planning, and intervention.