During a subclavian artery angiogram, contrast opacifies a large branch arising from the first part of the subclavian artery that ascends through the foramen transversarium of the sixth cervical vertebra. Which vessel is this?
- A Ascending cervical artery
- B Inferior thyroid artery
- C Vertebral artery ✓
- D Costocervical trunk
Correct answer: C. Vertebral artery
Explanation
The vertebral artery arises from the posterosuperior aspect of the first part of the subclavian and typically enters the foramen transversarium of B6, then climbs through the upper cervical foramina to reach the foramen magnum. The costocervical trunk gives off the deep cervical artery which passes backwards between B7 and T1, and the ascending cervical artery accompanies the phrenic nerve rather than entering any foramen.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice, 42nd ed.
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