Paramedian arteries

Paramedian arteries are a group of small arteries that supply blood to the brain. They are branches of the basilar artery and are part of the circulatory system of the body.

Etymology

The term "paramedian" is derived from the Greek words "para", meaning beside, and "median", meaning middle. This refers to the location of these arteries, which run alongside the midline of the brain.

Anatomy

The paramedian arteries are small branches of the basilar artery, which is one of the main arteries supplying the brain. They are located in the pons, a part of the brainstem, and supply blood to the medial and lateral parts of the pons.

There are usually several paramedian arteries on each side of the brainstem. They are end arteries, meaning they do not anastomose (connect) with other arteries. This means that if a paramedian artery is blocked, the area of the brain it supplies will not receive blood from any other source, leading to a stroke.

Clinical significance

Due to their end artery status, blockage of a paramedian artery can lead to a type of stroke known as a lacunar stroke. This is a small but deep stroke that occurs when one of the small penetrating arteries in the brain is blocked.

Paramedian artery strokes can cause a variety of symptoms depending on the area of the brain affected. These can include weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or swallowing, and problems with balance and coordination.

Related terms

• Basilar artery
• Pons
• Lacunar stroke
• Circulatory system

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