Carotid-basilar anastomosis

Anastomosis of the carotid and basilar basins is the connection of two main vessels in the brain, which ensures a stable blood supply to the brain with oxygen and nutrients. In this article we will look at everything you need to know about this unique formation.

First of all, it is worth saying that anastomotic connections exist between all the large arteries of the head, as well as between some of them. However, the carotid vascular system is characterized by the fact that it provides a special system of connecting walls in which the brain is connected to the spinal region and surrounding tissues. The connections of the vessels extend so deeply into the brain tissue that they form unique structures called perforating branches. These branches penetrate the temporal bone and the cranial membrane to the subdural space. The vessels ascending or descending in the brain vesicles have characteristic openings - the medial arch. These openings serve as the junction of the carotid and basilar arteries. The medial arch of the pons connects these two vessels together, forming an anastomosis.

This anastomosis is the main internal connection of the two most important vessels of the brain. The connection helps maintain blood flow in case of difficulty or interruption of one of the vessels. If one of these main vessels is damaged or compressed, another vessel takes over the function of pumping blood to other parts of the brain while allowing cerebral circulation to be maintained. This mechanism is important for the normal functioning of the brain, since it is indispensable for maintaining blood supply to the brain and preventing oxygen starvation.

Thus, the anastomosis of the capillary connections of these large vessels represents an indispensable part of the human anatomy, offering various ways to preserve cerebral blood flow during any change.