AbstractBackground: In about 80% of individuals, 3 branches arise from the arch of aorta; the branches from right to left are brachiocephalic artery, left common carotid artery, left subclavian artery. In the present study, we found an aberrant right subclavian artery arising from arch of aorta distal to left subclavian artery. Aims and Objectives: Variations in branching pattern of arch of aorta are frequently identified by imaging studies.The clinicians should be aware of abnormalities occurring in arch of aorta and its branches. This could help in managing these variations in emergency approaches to the arch of aorta and the great vessels. The aim of present study is to report the occurrence of abnormal origin of subclavian artery. Material and Methods: In department of Anatomy, I.G.G.M.C., Nagpur, the present study was conducted on embalmed cadavers. Results: Out of 48 cadavers, which were dissected, in 1 cadaver, we found an abnormal origin of right subclavian artery from arch of aorta distal to left subclavian artery. (i.e. 2.08%). The aberrant artery was passing behind the oesophagus. The origins of left subclavian artery in all cadavers were found to be normal. Conclusion: The retroesophageal right subclavian artery is important to the angiographer who use right axillary, brachial or radial approach to ascending aorta. Knowledge of this abnormality is important while evaluating the patient with difficulty in deglutition.
Keywords: Subclavian Artery; Arch of Aorta; Aberrant.