An Atypical Branch from the Right Pulmonary Artery During Heart Dissection: A Case Report

Anatomical variations in the pulmonary vasculature are rare but clinically significant, particularly in surgical and interventional cardiology. During a routine heart dissection of a 75-year-old female donor at the Medical University of the Americas, an atypical branch originating from the right pulmonary artery was observed. This branch, measuring approximately 5 mm in diameter, coexisted with an otherwise normal right pulmonary artery. Pulmonary artery anomalies stem from complex embryological processes and have been linked to conditions such as pulmonary artery slings and Kabuki syndrome. Recognizing these variations is crucial for accurate diagnostic imaging, surgical planning, and interventional procedures to prevent complications. This case contributes to the growing body of literature on pulmonary vascular anomalies and highlights the importance of meticulous anatomical evaluation in clinical practice.