Cortical Bloodflow and Vascular Anatomy

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cortical blood flow, vascular anatomy, and related pathology terms that are essential for understanding cerebral circulation.

What is the Circle of Willis?

A circular system of arteries that supplies blood to the brain and allows collateral circulation.

What is a thrombus?

A blood clot formed within a blood vessel.

What does ischemia mean?

A condition characterized by insufficient blood supply to tissues, resulting in a lack of oxygen.

What are the two main circulatory systems supplying the brain?

The Internal Carotid System (anterior circulation) and Vertebrobasilar System (posterior circulation).

What can happen if blood flow to the brain is stopped for 5-10 seconds?

Temporary neuronal changes occur.

What results from a stroke?

A stroke is the outcome of an embolic or ischemic event in the nervous system.

What does the Anterior Cerebral Artery supply?

It supplies the medial aspect of the frontal and parietal lobes.

What is the role of the Basilar Artery?

It supplies blood to the brainstem and cerebellum.

What are the primary arteries involved in the posterior circulation?

The Vertebral arteries and the Basilar artery.

What is the function of the Inferior Cerebellar Artery?

It supplies the inferior regions of the cerebellum.

What does the term 'embolic' refer to?

Relating to an embolus, which is any mass (thrombus or otherwise) traveling within the circulation.

How much of the body’s oxygen is used by the brain?

The brain uses approximately 20% of the body's oxygen.

What does the Anterior Communicating Artery connect?

It connects the two anterior cerebral arteries.

What is perfusion?

The process of delivering blood to a capillary bed in the biological tissue.

What happens during an infarct?

An area of dead tissue results from an embolic or ischemic event.

What arteries are known to supply the lateral surface of the brain?

The Middle Cerebral Arteries supply the lateral cortex.

Which artery is primarily at risk during posterior fossa surgery?

The Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery (PICA).