Brainstem arterial territories (diagrams)

Case contributed by Craig Hacking
Diagnosis not applicable

Key

AICA: anterior inferior cerebellar artery

AChA: anterior choroidal artery

ASA: anterior spinal artery

Basilar: basilar artery

PICA: posterior inferior cerebellar artery

PCA: posterior cerebral artery

PSA: posterior spinal artery

SCA: superior cerebellar artery

VA: vertebral artery

Case Discussion

There is extensive variation in the arterial supply of the structures of the brainstem. These diagrams are based on a collection of resources and are not intended to be used as a definitive reference, rather a general guide to the vascular territories. Obviously in individual patients, the size of the components of the circle of Willis will determine specific territories.

Key

AICA: anterior inferior cerebellar artery

AChA: anterior choroidal artery

ASA: anterior spinal artery

Basilar: basilar artery

PICA: posterior inferior cerebellar artery

PCA: posterior cerebral artery

PSA: posterior spinal artery

SCA: superior cerebellar artery

VA: vertebral artery

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