Artery of Adamkiewicz Origin
The artery of Adamkiewicz (also called the arteria radicularis magna or great anterior radicularis artery) arises from the lower thoracic or upper lumbar aorta, typically between T8-L2, most commonly on the left side between T9-T12.
Anatomic Details
The artery of Adamkiewicz is the largest anterior segmental medullary artery supplying the spinal cord. Key anatomic features include:
- Origin level: Arises from an intercostal or lumbar artery branching from the descending thoracic or abdominal aorta
- Most common location: T9-T12 vertebral levels (approximately 75% of cases)
- Laterality: Left-sided origin in 75-80% of cases
- Supplies: The anterior two-thirds of the lower thoracic and lumbosacral spinal cord via the anterior spinal artery
Clinical Significance
Understanding this artery's origin is critical during:
- Thoracoabdominal aortic surgery: Risk of spinal cord ischemia and paraplegia if this vessel is compromised
- TEVAR procedures: Coverage of intercostal arteries can interrupt spinal cord perfusion
- Preoperative imaging: CT or MR angiography should identify the artery of Adamkiewicz location before extensive aortic repairs
The variable origin of this artery (anywhere from T8-L2) makes preoperative identification essential to prevent devastating spinal cord injury during aortic interventions.
Note: The provided evidence 1 discusses vertebral artery variants and aortic arch anatomy but does not directly address the artery of Adamkiewicz, so this answer relies on established anatomic knowledge.