Aortic Arch and Sternocleidomastoid Muscle Connection

Which aortic arch is associated with the vessel that runs along the inner side of the sternocleidomastoid muscle?

A) First aortic arch

B) Second aortic arch

C) Third aortic arch

D) Fourth aortic arch

E) Fifth aortic arch

Answer:

The vessel that runs along the inner side of the sternocleidomastoid muscle is associated with the fourth aortic arch.

The aortic arch branches into three major arteries: the brachiocephalic artery, the left common carotid artery, and the left subclavian artery. These elastic arteries play crucial roles in supplying blood to various regions of the body.

In the case of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, a prominent muscle located in the neck, it is closely associated with the common carotid artery, which is a branch of the brachiocephalic artery. The brachiocephalic artery itself is part of the fourth aortic arch.

Therefore, the vessel running along the inner side of the sternocleidomastoid muscle is linked to the fourth aortic arch. This anatomical correlation highlights the importance of understanding the vascular supply to different structures in the body.