CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

From what vessels do the right and left vertebral arteries originate?

1. Right and left carotid arteries

2. Right and left brachial arteries

3. Right and left subclavian arteries

4. Right and left pulmonary arteries

The correct answer is: Right and left subclavian arteries

The right and left vertebral arteries originate from the right and left subclavian arteries, making this the correct answer. The vertebral arteries are a pair of major arteries that supply blood to the posterior aspects of the brain and the spinal cord. Each one arises from the corresponding subclavian artery, which is located beneath the clavicle and branches off from the aorta. Understanding the anatomy of the vascular system is crucial for comprehending how blood flow is directed to various regions of the body, especially in the context of neurological and vascular health. The subclavian arteries serve as branching points for several important vessels, making them significant in providing oxygen-rich blood to upper limb structures, as well as to regions like the brain through the vertebral arteries. Other vessels listed do not supply the vertebral arteries. The carotid arteries primarily supply the anterior circulation of the brain, the brachial arteries are located in the arm and serve the upper limb, and the pulmonary arteries carry deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation, rather than supplying blood to the vertebral region.