Arteria communicans

Arteria Communicans is a term used in anatomy to refer to a group of arteries in the brain that connect the anterior and posterior parts of the circle of Willis. The circle of Willis, also known as the cerebral arterial circle, is a circulatory anastomosis that supplies blood to the brain and surrounding structures.

Structure

The arteria communicans is divided into two main parts: the anterior communicating artery and the posterior communicating artery.

The anterior communicating artery connects the two anterior cerebral arteries across the midline. It is a small, short vessel that plays a crucial role in the brain's blood supply.

The posterior communicating artery, on the other hand, forms the connection between the internal carotid artery and the posterior cerebral artery. This artery is part of the posterior circulation of the brain.

Function

The primary function of the arteria communicans is to ensure collateral blood flow to the brain. This means that if one of the main arteries supplying blood to the brain is blocked or narrowed, the arteria communicans can provide an alternative route for blood to reach the brain tissue. This collateral circulation can help prevent stroke and other forms of cerebrovascular disease.

Clinical significance

The arteria communicans is a common site for the formation of aneurysms, which are bulges in the wall of a blood vessel. If an aneurysm in the arteria communicans ruptures, it can cause a type of stroke known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

See also

• Circle of Willis
• Anterior cerebral artery
• Posterior cerebral artery
• Internal carotid artery