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Spinal Anatomy Exam III Practice

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Which part of the vertebral artery is encountered on the posterior arch of the atlas in the suboccipital triangle? (Alternate phrasing)
Correct Answer:
Third part
Explanation:
The vertebral artery is classically divided into four segments along its journey from the subclavian to the brainstem. After it ascends through the transverse foramen of the atlas (C1), it courses medially over the posterior arch of the atlas in a groove and then enters the foramen magnum. This portion—the segment between leaving the C1 transverse foramen and entering the skull—is the third part. It’s the part you encounter on the posterior arch of the atlas within the suboccipital triangle, where the artery lies in a groove on the posterior arch before turning medially to enter the foramen magnum.

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