Circulus arteriosus minor

Circulus arteriosus minor is a term used in anatomy to describe a specific part of the circulatory system in the human body. It is also known as the circle of Willis, named after Thomas Willis, an English doctor who worked in the field of anatomy in the 17th century. The term circulus arteriosus minor is derived from Latin, where circulus means circle, arteriosus refers to arteries, and minor indicates that it is smaller in comparison to the circulus arteriosus major.

Structure

The circulus arteriosus minor is a circular network of arteries located at the base of the brain. It is formed by the anastomosis (connection) of several major arteries, including the left and right internal carotid arteries, and the left and right vertebral arteries. These arteries supply blood to the brain and surrounding structures.

Function

The primary function of the circulus arteriosus minor is to ensure a consistent and adequate blood supply to the brain. It achieves this by providing a collateral circulation pathway. This means that if one of the main arteries supplying the brain becomes blocked, blood can be rerouted through the circle of Willis to ensure the affected area still receives an adequate blood supply.

Clinical significance

The circulus arteriosus minor is of significant clinical importance. Variations in its structure can lead to a number of medical conditions, including stroke, aneurysm, and moyamoya disease. Furthermore, its role in providing collateral circulation can be crucial in patients with carotid artery stenosis or other conditions that affect the blood supply to the brain.

See also

• Circle of Willis
• Circulatory system
• Internal carotid artery
• Vertebral artery