Study of the Relationship between the Transverse Foramina of The Cervical Vertebrae and the Corresponding Vertebral Arteries in Human Vertebral Column by Using Contrast Computed Tomography

Background: The vertebral arteries (VA) and internal carotid arteries play a crucial role in cerebral blood flow, with cervical vertebrae contributing significantly to vascular supply through their transverse foramina. Objective: This study examined the relationship between transverse foramina cross-sectional areas (C1-C6) and corresponding VA dimensions to enhance understanding of vascular variations impacting cerebral perfusion. Subjects and methods: This prospective study included 30 subjects (age 25-55) who underwent contrast-enhanced CT angiography for non-neurological symptoms. Measurements of right and left transverse foramina (RF and LF) and VA (RV and LV) were recorded. Statistical analysis was conducted using paired t-tests and Spearman’s correlation via SPSS version 16.0. Results: Mean cross-sectional areas of RF and LF were largest at C1 and C2, decreasing from C3 to C6. Significant side-to-side variance was noted at C1 (p < 0.05) but not at other levels. Positive correlations were observed between transverse foramen and vertebral artery areas (r² for right side = 0.86, p < 0.001; left side = 0.53, p < 0.001), indicating an association between foramina and artery size. Conclusion: The transverse foramina dimensions correlated strongly with vertebral artery size, which may aid in diagnostic and surgical planning in cervical spine procedures. CT angiography is recommended for detailed assessment of vertebral artery anomalies.