Anatomical Variations in the Branching Pattern of the Celiac Trunk, Number of Originating Arteries and Position of the Kidneys: A Cadaveric Dissection Report

According to anatomical reference books, the celiac trunk (CT) is divided into three terminal branches, namely the common hepatic artery (CHA), left gastric artery (LGA), and splenic artery (SA). However, variations in the number and location of the CT branches are possible. The body of a 40-year-old deceased male was used for anatomization in the Anatomical Hall of Alborz University of Medical Sciences (Karaj, Iran). During the dissection, variations in the branching pattern of the CT, such as the orientation of the main celiac branches, the origin of the inferior phrenic artery, and the aberrant supplementary artery to supply the liver were observed. Furthermore, a variation in the location of the kidneys and renal arteries was observed. In addition to CHA, LGA, and SA, two additional branching patterns, namely the left inferior phrenic artery (LIPA), and right accessory hepatic artery (RAHA) were noticed. This variation is rarely observed in human anatomy. Therefore, awareness of the arterial anatomy and possible variations is essential during surgeries (e.g., biliary tract surgery, liver transplant) and radiological procedures. To the best of our knowledge, such variations in the branching pattern of the CT have not been reported or described in anatomical reference books. Hence, the present study aimed to highlight the existence of these variations to assist surgeons, radiologists, and anatomists.