Cerebral vasculature

Cerebral Vasculature

The cerebral vasculature refers to the network of blood vessels that supply the brain with oxygen and nutrients. This intricate system is crucial for maintaining the brain's function and overall health. The cerebral vasculature includes arteries, veins, and capillaries that work together to ensure adequate blood flow to the brain.

Anatomy of the Cerebral Vasculature

The cerebral vasculature is primarily composed of the following structures:

Arteries

The brain receives its blood supply from two main pairs of arteries:

• Internal carotid arteries: These arteries arise from the common carotid arteries in the neck and enter the skull to supply the anterior portion of the brain. They branch into the anterior cerebral artery and the middle cerebral artery.

• Vertebral arteries: These arteries originate from the subclavian arteries and travel through the vertebrae to enter the skull. They merge to form the basilar artery, which supplies the posterior part of the brain.

The internal carotid and vertebral arteries form the Circle of Willis, a circular network of arteries that provides collateral circulation to the brain.

Veins

The venous drainage of the brain is primarily through the following:

• Cerebral veins: These veins drain the brain tissue and empty into the dural venous sinuses.

• Dural venous sinuses: These are channels located between the layers of the dura mater. They collect blood from the cerebral veins and direct it into the internal jugular veins.

Capillaries

The capillaries in the brain form the blood-brain barrier, a selective permeability barrier that protects the brain from harmful substances while allowing essential nutrients to pass through.

Function of the Cerebral Vasculature

The primary function of the cerebral vasculature is to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the brain and remove carbon dioxide and metabolic waste products. This is vital for maintaining the brain's metabolic demands and ensuring proper neural function.

Clinical Significance

Disorders of the cerebral vasculature can lead to significant neurological conditions, including:

• Stroke: A sudden interruption of blood supply to the brain, which can be ischemic (due to blockage) or hemorrhagic (due to bleeding).

• Aneurysm: A bulge in a blood vessel wall that can rupture and cause bleeding in the brain.

• Arteriovenous malformation: An abnormal connection between arteries and veins that can lead to bleeding or reduced blood flow.

Imaging of the Cerebral Vasculature

Various imaging techniques are used to visualize the cerebral vasculature, including:

• Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
• Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)
• Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA)

Also see

• Circle of Willis
• Blood-brain barrier
• Stroke
• Aneurysm
• Arteriovenous malformation