Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 5, 2025
Microsurgical Clip Obliteration of Middle Cerebral Aneurysm Using Intraoperative Flow Assessment
Published on: September 25, 2009
Microsurgical Anatomy of Middle Cerebral Artery in Northwest Indian Population: A Cadaveric Brain Dissection Study
Rakshith Srinivasa1, Kedia Shwetha2, Salunke Pravin3
1Department of Neurosurgery, MS Ramaiah Medical College and Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
Background:
Microsurgical anatomy of the Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) of the Northwest Indian population has not been described to date. A study of cadaveric brains will add to the existing knowledge of brain vessels.
Objective:
To study and compare the microsurgical anatomy of MCA in Northwest Indian Population with that of the available literature.
Methods And Material:
15 Formalin Fixed Cadaveric brains, that is 30 vessels from its origin from Internal Cerebral Artery to M5 segment with respect to diameter, length and branching pattern were studied under high magnification (operating microscope) and the data compared with literature.
Results:
The main trunk of MCA was 16±3 mm long with no significant differences between both sides. Its outer diameter was 3±0.1 mm. Among the early branches 58% were destined to the temporal lobe. Distance between the origin of the early branch from MCA origin was 4±2mm on the right side and 4.5±2.5 mm on the left side. The most consistent perforating branch group was the intermediate group. The pattern of branching of the main trunk was bifurcation (73%), single trunk (10%) and trifurcation (10%). Within the bifurcation group, inferior trunk dominance was seen in 50%. Amongst the cortical branches diameter of the angular artery was largest and the temporo-polar was smallest. No significant difference in the data as compared to literature.
Conclusions:
The knowledge of anatomy of MCA and its variations are important for neurosurgical residents' training and neurosurgeons dealing with MCA aneurysm management or bypass surgeries.
Insights
This study details the microsurgical anatomy of the Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) in the Northwest Indian population. Findings reveal typical branching patterns and dimensions, crucial for neurosurgical procedures.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Vascular Anatomy
- Neuroanatomy
Background:
- Microsurgical anatomy of the Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) in Northwest Indians is not well-documented.
- Cadaveric studies enhance understanding of cerebral vasculature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare the microsurgical anatomy of the MCA in Northwest Indian individuals with existing literature.
- Establish anatomical baselines for this specific population.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 30 MCA vessels (Internal Cerebral Artery origin to M5 segment) from 15 formalin-fixed cadaveric brains.
- Detailed examination of diameter, length, and branching patterns under operating microscope.
- Comparison of collected data with published anatomical literature.
Main Results:
- The main MCA trunk measured 16±3 mm long with a 3±0.1 mm diameter, showing no significant side-to-side differences.
- Early branches predominantly supplied the temporal lobe (58%).
- Bifurcation was the most common branching pattern (73%), with inferior trunk dominance in 50% of these cases.
Conclusions:
- Understanding MCA anatomy and variations is vital for neurosurgical training.
- Essential knowledge for neurosurgeons managing MCA aneurysms and performing bypass surgeries.
