At what level does the abdominal aorta bifurcate?

The abdominal aorta typically bifurcates into the right and left common iliac arteries at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4). This bifurcation is an important anatomical landmark in various medical imaging procedures and surgeries. Understanding the anatomy of the aorta and its bifurcation helps in diagnosing vascular diseases, planning surgical interventions, and accurately interpreting imaging studies. The location at L4 is significant as it provides a consistent reference point that can be used when evaluating patients in imaging modalities like CT scans, ensuring accurate assessments of the aorta and its branches.