A cadaveric study of common carotid artery morphology and its implications in carotid endarterectomy

Introduction: The common carotid artery bifurcation is a clinically significant landmark and a common site for atherosclerosis. Variations in bifurcation level have important implications for vascular and head-neck surgeries.Aim and Objectives: To observe and record the origin, course and termination of the common carotid artery and to note variations in bifurcation level.Materials and Methods: A prospective cadaveric study was conducted on 30 embalmed human cadavers in the Department of Anatomy, Subbaiah Institute of Medical Sciences, Shimoga, India from March 2021 to March 2026. Both right and left Common Carotid Arteries were studied by dissection.Results: Normal origin was observed in all cases. High bifurcation, defined as above the upper border of thyroid cartilage, was observed bilaterally in 4 cadavers ∼13.3%; between body of hyoid bone and angle of mandible – 6 sides and above angle of mandible – 2 sides. No asymmetry was noted. No branches arose from common carotid artery.Conclusion: Knowledge of high carotid bifurcation is vital for surgeons and radiologists to avoid complications. High bifurcation is an important consideration for choosing carotid stenting over endarterectomy.