A rare anatomical origin of the inferior thyroid artery from the common carotid artery: A case report

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The inferior thyroid artery (ITA) usually originates from the thyrocervical trunk in the majority of the human population (90.5%), or from the subclavian artery in a few populations of humans (7.5%). It is quite rare to find the ITA originating from the common carotid artery (CCA). CASE PRESENTATION: This study was a case report of a cadaveric dissection at the anatomy department, university of Rwanda. The case was a 54-year-old male who had 2 inferior thyroid arteries on the left side, with one originating from the thyrocervical trunk and the other taking a rare anatomical origin from the CCA. CONCLUSION: It is important that such anatomical arterial patterns be documented in order to create awareness that is useful to surgeons and imaging specialists. This will help reduce the risk of iatrogenic complications during the surgical intervention to the thyroid gland.