The artery of Adamkiewicz (arteria radicularis magna) is the dominant radicular artery supplying the anterior spinal artery in the thoracolumbar region. At which spinal level does it most commonly arise?

• A T1–T4 on the right side
• B L3–L5 bilaterally from lumbar segmental arteries
• C T5–T7 on either side with equal frequency
• D T9–T12 on the left side, most commonly ✓

Explanation

The artery of Adamkiewicz (great anterior radicular artery) is the largest and most important feeder of the anterior spinal artery, supplying the lower two-thirds of the spinal cord (thoracolumbar cord including conus medullaris). It arises most commonly from a left intercostal or lumbar artery at the T9–T12 level (approximately 75% on the left, 25% on the right). Its inadvertent ligation during thoracoabdominal aortic surgery or endovascular stent-graft placement can cause anterior spinal artery syndrome with paraplegia, loss of bladder/bowel control, but preserved posterior column sensation.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.