Thyroidea ima Artery: A Report of Two Cases

Thyroidea ima is a rare anomalous artery supplying the thyroid gland apart from the superior and inferior thyroid arteries. It is of surgical importance in thyroid, parathyroid and tracheal surgeries. Our study aims to highlight two cases of thyroidea ima artery found during thyroidectomy: • Case 1: Thyroidea ima artery was seen arising from the medial surface of the right common carotid artery in a female patient, who underwent total thyroidectomy. • Case 2: Thyroidea ima artery was seen arising from the anterior surface of the right innominate artery, in a female patient, who underwent right hemithyroidectomy. Conclusion: Thyroidea ima artery, although a rare arterial variation, a thorough regional anatomic knowledge and meticulous dissection will not only help us in identifying such a vascular variation, also help us in preventing an accidental injury.