Study of variations of the anterior cerebral artery in human brain

Abstract

Background and aims: Stroke, the most frequent expression of cerebrovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death and disability throughout the world. The manifestations are largely accounted by the anatomical distribution of the stems and branches of the circle of Willis supplying the brain. Considerable individual variation exists in the pattern and caliber of the individual vessels forming the circle of Willis, which may possibly impair the collateral blood flow. The knowledge of these variations thus, becomes essential for medical as well as surgical interventions. There may possibly be some regional variations in the cerebral arteries not mentioned in standard available texts. Thus, the regional based study of variations present becomes essential. The present study aims to focus on the variation of one of such branches, the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) in the population of Assam, India. Material and Methods: The ACAs of 70 human cadaveric brains were examined by gross dissection in the department of Anatomy and Forensic medicine in Gauhati Medical College. Results: Hypoplastic A-l segment were found in 7% cases, Hypoplastic A-2 segment in 2.85% cases, Buttonhole formation in 8.57% cases and aneurysmal dilatation in 1.42% cases. The results were compared with that of other authors and variations noted. Conclusion: The present study of ACA using gross dissection is an initial step in providing a reference to the healthcare professionals in the region of Assam. Based on this further studies using newer imaging methods should be carried out to correlate the manifestations clinically.

Keywords

• stroke
• circle of willis
• cerebrovascular accidents
• aneurysmal dilatation