Vessel
Vertebral artery
Posterior brain supply
High-yield
Passes through the transverse foramina of C6-C1, then the foramen magnum; the two unite to form the basilar artery (posterior circulation).
Overview
A branch of the subclavian artery that ascends through the cervical transverse foramina and the foramen magnum to supply the posterior brain.
Reference facts
- Type
- Muscular artery
- Origin
- Subclavian artery (first part)
- Branches / tributaries
- Anterior and posterior spinal arteries; Posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA)
- Supplies
- Cervical spinal cord, brainstem, and posterior brain (via the basilar artery)
- Course
- Ascends through the transverse foramina of C6 to C1, crosses the posterior arch of the atlas, and enters the skull through the foramen magnum
Frequently asked questions
Where does the vertebral artery originate?
The vertebral artery arises from the subclavian artery (first part).
What does the vertebral artery supply?
The vertebral artery supplies the cervical spinal cord, brainstem, and posterior brain (via the basilar artery).
What are the branches of the vertebral artery?
Branches of the vertebral artery include the anterior and posterior spinal arteries; Posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA).
What is the course of the vertebral artery?
Ascends through the transverse foramina of C6 to C1, crosses the posterior arch of the atlas, and enters the skull through the foramen magnum.