What is "vertebral artery"

n. the first branch of the subclavian artery; divided into four parts [syn: arteria vertebralis]

The vertebral arteries are major arteries of the neck. They branch from the subclavian arteries and merge to form the single midline basilar artery in a complex called the vertebrobasilar system, which supplies blood to the posterior part of the circle of Willis and thus significant portions of the brain.