Introduction

Abstract

Within the long history of vascular surgery, the vertebral artery (V.A.) does not occupy a large place. The relatively minor importance attributed to the V. A., together with its infrequent pathology, deep location, and difficult access for exploration and surgery has led to the accessory place of V. A. surgery. Compared to the carotid artery, developments in physiopathology, investigation and surgery of the V. A. have always appeared later. Today, while carotid artery surgery is routinely performed, V. A. surgery remains a challenge for most surgeons. However, as early as 1929, Chiari tried to treat a V. A. lesion. Although he failed, since he ligated the carotid artery with subsequent death, this was nevertheless the first recognition of the need to treat a V.A. lesion (Tables 1 and 2).