The accessory middle cerebral artery: anatomic report

Neurosurgery
Cassius V C ReisMark C Preul

Abstract

An accessory middle cerebral artery (MCA) usually originates between the A1 and proximal A2 segment of the anterior cerebral artery, reaches the sylvian fissure, and supplies the territory of the MCA. This anomaly has been associated with cerebral aneurysms and Moyamoya disease. We report an accessory MCA arising from the A2 segment. A cadaveric head, fixed in formalin solution and injected with red and blue silicone on its vascular tree to trace intracranial and extracranial vessels, was dissected. An accessory MCA was found arising from the A2 segment of the anterior cerebral artery and feeding the basal and inferior surface of the inferior frontal gyrus. In our specimen, the vessel was associated with intracranial aneurysms at other locations. Although anomalies of the MCA are rare, neurosurgeons must be familiar with such anatomic variations. An accessory MCA can be associated with Moyamoya disease and aneurysms at its junction with the anterior cerebral artery. Patients with this anomaly may, therefore, have an increased risk for developing aneurysms and other neurovascular complications. By obstructing the surgical view, an accessory MCA may increase the difficulty of exposing lesions in the vicinity of the optic chiasm.

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Aphasia

Aphasia affects the ability to process language, including formulation and comprehension of language and speech, as well as the ability to read or write. Here is the latest research on aphasia.

Aneurysm

Aneurysms are outward distensions or bulges that occurs in a weakened wall of blood vessels. Discover the latest research on aneurysms here.

Related Papers

Acta neurochirurgica
Philippe BijlengaKarl Schaller
Interventional Neuroradiology : Journal of Peritherapeutic Neuroradiology, Surgical Procedures and Related Neurosciences
R Lenthall, G Rodesch
© 2022 Meta ULC. All rights reserved