Meningeal branches of vertebral artery

Branches of the vertebral artery that supply the meninges

The meningeal branches of the vertebral artery are small branches that arise from the vertebral artery and supply the meninges, the protective coverings of the brain and spinal cord. These branches play a crucial role in providing blood supply to the dura mater, one of the three layers of the meninges.

Anatomy

The vertebral artery is a major artery of the neck, originating from the subclavian artery. It ascends through the transverse foramina of the cervical vertebrae and enters the cranial cavity through the foramen magnum. As it ascends, the vertebral artery gives off several branches, including the meningeal branches.

The meningeal branches are typically small and variable in number. They arise from the vertebral artery before it merges with the contralateral vertebral artery to form the basilar artery. These branches penetrate the dura mater to supply the meninges, particularly the posterior cranial fossa.

Function

The primary function of the meningeal branches of the vertebral artery is to supply blood to the meninges, specifically the dura mater. The dura mater is the outermost layer of the meninges and provides a protective covering for the brain and spinal cord. Adequate blood supply to the dura mater is essential for maintaining its structural integrity and function.

Clinical significance

The meningeal branches of the vertebral artery can be involved in various clinical conditions. For instance, they may be implicated in certain types of headaches or contribute to the vascular supply of meningiomas, which are tumors that arise from the meninges. Understanding the anatomy and function of these branches is important in neurosurgical procedures and in the diagnosis and treatment of cranial and spinal pathologies.

Also see

• Vertebral artery
• Basilar artery
• Meninges
• Dura mater
• Cerebrovascular circulation