A comprehensive review of the vertebral artery anatomy

The vertebral arteries (VA) play a critical role by supplying nearly one-third of the brain's blood flow, predominantly contributing to the posterior circulation. These arteries may need to be exposed in a various cranial and cervical procedures and offers access to investigate or treat vascular lesions by endovascular means related to the posterior circulation. Given its complex anatomy, which is subject to numerous variations, and its role in supplying vital brain regions, a thorough understanding of the VA's anatomy is paramount for any related procedure.