Origin variations of the inferior phrenic arteries: a retrospective anatomical study

Abstract

Objectives: The inferior phrenic arteries may show variable origin patterns, which can be relevant during upper abdominal imaging and interventional procedures. This study aimed to evaluate the origin variations of the inferior phrenic arteries (IPAs) using computed tomography angiography (CTA). Methods: This retrospective anatomical study included 356 adult patients who underwent abdominal CTA. The right and left IPAs were assessed separately. The presence of a common inferior phrenic trunk (CIPT), the origin of common trunks, and the origin patterns of separately arising right and left IPAs were recorded. Bilateral main-source symmetry/asymmetry was also evaluated. The presence of a CIPT was compared according to sex and age group. Results: A CIPT was identified in 99 patients (27.8%), whereas separate origins of the right and left IPAs were observed in 257 patients (72.2%). Among common trunks, the most frequent origin was the celiac trunk (CT; 48.5%), followed by the abdominal aorta (AA) at the mid-celiac level (34.3%). In patients with separate origins, the CT was the most common source for both the right and left IPAs, observed in 44.1% and 42.2% of cases, respectively. The presence of a CIPT did not differ significantly according to sex or age group. Conclusion: The IPAs showed variable origin patterns on CTA, most commonly involving the CT and AA. Recognition of bilateral asymmetry and rare origins may support preprocedural vascular mapping in upper abdominal endovascular interventions.

Keywords

• abdominal aorta
• anatomical variation
• celiac trunk
• common trunk
• computed tomography angiography
• inferior phrenic artery

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