Arteries of the brain

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The arterial supply of the brain is derived from two primary sources: the internal carotid and vertebral arteries. The internal carotid arteries and their branches supply blood to the majority of the forebrain giving them the classification of the anterior cerebral circulation or the internal carotid system. The vertebral arteries and their major branches supply blood to the spinal cord, brainstem and cerebellum, and a significant part of the posterior cerebral hemispheres (usually the occipital and inferior temporal lobes). The vertebral arteries and their branches are commonly referred to as the vertebrobasilar system or the posterior cerebral circulation.

The cerebral arterial circle (of Willis) is an anatomical structure that provides an anastomotic connection between the anterior and posterior circulations, providing collateral flow to affected brain regions in the event of arterial incompetency.

The following videos will provide you with a comprehensive overview of cerebral circulation. The first video will focus on the arteries seen from the inferior perspective, including the circle of Willis. The second video will then focus on the arteries seen on the medial and lateral views of the brain.

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Take a closer look at the arteries of the brain from an inferior, medial and lateral view in the galleries below. 

Summary