Objectives: The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of thyroid ima artery (TIA) and branching pattern variations of aortic arch among 2000 patients who underwent
CECT imaging.
Materials and methods: This retrospective cross-sectional observational study included 2000 patients who underwent CECT of aortic arch and branches during a two years period in a tertiary care center in South India. The presence of the thyroid ima artery with its origin was identified and the branching patterns of the aortic arch were assessed.
Results: TIA was identified in 23 patients, showing a prevalence of 1.15%. The normal branching pattern of the aortic arch was observed in 1493 patients, and variations in the branching pattern were seen in 507 patients. The variations included 342 cases of the bovine-type arch, 162 left vertebral arteries originating from the arch, 16 aberrant right subclavian arteries, 10 right-sided aortic arch, and 1 double aortic arch.
Conclusion: The identification of TIA and variations in aortic arch branching are crucial, as they can cause complications during neck and thoracic surgeries and endovascular interventions. CECT is a reliable tool to assess vascular anatomy. Considering the prevalence demonstrated in our study, imaging should be included prior to procedures in order to prevent
complications.