Anatomical variation in internal thoracic artery termination and sternal anomaly: implications for surgical and interventional procedures

The internal thoracic artery (ITA) has been used extensively in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in recent years because it is more durable, has higher survival rates, and improves postoperative quality of life when compared to saphenous vein grafts. Its favorable anatomical dimensions and intrathoracic course further contribute to its efficacy. Additionally, understanding the anatomical details of the ITA is crucial for procedures such as percutaneous transthoracic interventions, including lung needle biopsies. Here, we report an intriguing cadaveric observation involving a variation in ITA termination accompanied by a sternal anomaly. These findings draw attention to the significance of recognizing anatomical variations, particularly in the context of surgical and interventional procedures, as such variations can influence clinical strategies and outcomes.