69. THE BLOOD SUPPLY OF THE BRAIN. CIRCLE OF WILLIS. CLINICAL NOTES Flashcards
What is the Circle of Willis?
The Circle of Willis is an anastomosis of vessels at the base of the brain that ensures constant blood supply to the brain, even if one of the main arteries gets blocked or stenosed.
What arteries supply blood to the anterior brain?
The left and right internal carotid arteries supply the anterior brain.
What arteries supply blood to the posterior brain?
The left and right vertebral arteries supply blood to the posterior brain.
What do the vertebral arteries form?
The left and right vertebral arteries join together to form the basilar artery.
What does the Circle of Willis interconnect?
The Circle of Willis interconnects the anterior cerebral arteries, middle cerebral arteries, and posterior cerebral arteries.
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What happens if the internal carotid artery is blocked?
The blockage of the internal carotid artery can be bypassed by the posterior cerebral arteries via the Circle of Willis to prevent severe ischemic damage.
Where are aneurysms commonly found in the Circle of Willis?
Aneurysms are commonly found at the sites of junction of these arteries, particularly the anterior communicating artery.
What can an aneurysm at the Circle of Willis lead to?
An aneurysm at the Circle of Willis can lead to a fatal subarachnoid hemorrhage.
What arteries are involved in the Circle of Willis?
The arteries involved in the Circle of Willis include the anterior cerebral arteries, middle cerebral arteries, posterior cerebral arteries, vertebral arteries, and internal carotid arteries.
