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A morphological study of the posterior communicating artery
1Department of Anatomy, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey. aysunuz99@yahoo.com
Folia Morphologica
|February 16, 2005
Summary
The posterior communicating artery (PCoA) most commonly originates from the internal carotid artery. Its perforating branches are concentrated in the initial two-thirds, making the posterior third a safer surgical area.
Area of Science:
- Neuroanatomy
- Vascular Anatomy
- Cerebral Circulation
Background:
- The posterior communicating artery (PCoA) is a critical component of the Circle of Willis.
- Understanding its origin and branching patterns is vital for neurovascular surgery and research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anatomical variations in the origin of the PCoA.
- To characterize the perforating branches of the PCoA and their distribution.
- To assess the implications for surgical interventions.
Main Methods:
- Dissection of 30 human brains after latex injection of the internal carotid and basilar arteries.
- Detailed analysis of the origin, length, and perforating branches of the PCoA.
- Measurement of the distances and areas related to the perforating branch origins.
Main Results:
- The PCoA originated from the posterior aspect of the internal carotid artery in 66.6% of hemispheres.
- A fetal-type PCoA was observed in 26.6% of hemispheres.
- Perforating branches were densely clustered in the initial two-thirds of the PCoA, with the posterior third being relatively sparse.
Conclusions:
- The origin of the PCoA exhibits significant variability.
- The distribution of perforating branches suggests the posterior third of the PCoA is a relatively safer zone during surgical procedures.
- Awareness of these anatomical variations is crucial for minimizing surgical risks.