Anterior communicating artery

Anterior Communicating Artery

Diagram of the arterial circulation at the base of the brain (Anterior communicating artery labeled at center)

The Anterior communicating artery is a blood vessel in the brain that connects the left and right anterior cerebral arteries. It is a part of the Circle of Willis, which is a circulatory anastomosis that supplies blood to the brain and surrounding structures.

Structure

The anterior communicating artery is approximately 4 mm in length. It connects the two anterior cerebral arteries and could be said to arise from either the left or right side.

Function

The anterior communicating artery is part of the brain's blood supply, specifically the Circle of Willis. It allows blood to flow between the two hemispheres of the brain, ensuring that if one anterior cerebral artery becomes blocked or narrowed, the other can provide sufficient blood supply.

Clinical significance

Aneurysms of the anterior communicating artery are the most common form of cerebral aneurysm, and can lead to subarachnoid hemorrhage, a form of stroke.

See also

• Circle of Willis
• Anterior cerebral artery
• Cerebral aneurysm

External links

• Stroke Center - Anterior Cerebral Artery