Paramedian arteries

Paramedian arteries are small arterial branches arising from the basilar artery. These arteries play a crucial role in the blood supply to the brainstem, specifically the medulla oblongata and the pons. Their function is essential for maintaining the physiological activities of the central nervous system.

Anatomy

The paramedian arteries originate from:

• The basilar artery on its anterior surface.

They run medially to supply:

• The medial portion of the pons.
• The medial region of the medulla oblongata.

Function

Paramedian arteries are responsible for:

• Supplying oxygenated blood to critical structures in the brainstem.
• Supporting the functioning of nuclei and pathways involved in vital processes such as:
  • Motor control.
  • Sensory transmission.
  • Cardiorespiratory regulation.

Clinical Significance

The paramedian arteries are highly significant in neurology and vascular medicine. Damage or obstruction to these arteries can result in:

Medial pontine syndrome:

• Caused by infarction in the paramedian territory of the pons.
• Symptoms include contralateral hemiparesis, ataxia, and dysarthria.

Medial medullary syndrome: Caused by ischemia or infarction in the medial medulla oblongata. Symptoms include:

• Contralateral hemiparesis.
• Loss of proprioception and vibration sensation.
• Ipsilateral hypoglossal nerve dysfunction (e.g., tongue deviation).

Related Arteries

• Short circumferential arteries: Supply lateral portions of the pons.
• Long circumferential arteries: Supply more distant regions of the brainstem.
• Basilar artery: The primary source of the paramedian arteries.

See Also

• Basilar artery
• Brainstem
• Pontine arteries
• Stroke syndromes

References

1. Moore, K.L., Dalley, A.F., and Agur, A.M.R. "Clinically Oriented Anatomy." Seventh Edition. Wolters Kluwer, 2018.
2. Rhoton, A.L. "Cerebral Vascular Anatomy." Neurosurgery, 2007.