Which artery originates from the brachiocephalic artery?

• A. Right common carotid
• B. Left common carotid
• C. Subclavian artery
• D. Femoral artery

Answer: (A)

The right common carotid artery originates from the brachiocephalic artery, which is the only major artery that branches off the aorta to supply blood to the right side of the head and neck. Specifically, the brachiocephalic artery splits into the right common carotid and the right subclavian artery. This anatomical relationship makes it clear that the right common carotid is directly supplied by the brachiocephalic artery, allowing blood to flow to the right side of the head.

In contrast, the left common carotid artery arises directly from the aortic arch, not from the brachiocephalic artery. Similarly, the subclavian arteries (left and right) supply the upper limbs and do not stem from the brachiocephalic artery for the left side. The femoral artery, on the other hand, is found in the thigh and is not related to the brachiocephalic artery in its origins or functions.

Understanding these anatomical relationships is essential in mortuary science, particularly in embalming, where knowledge of vascular anatomy is critical for effective fluid distribution throughout the body.