Anatomical Variations in Anterior Cerebral Circulation - Cadaveric Study in Indian Population

AIM OF THE STUDYTo study the microsurgical anatomy and variations of the anterior cerebral circulation and to discuss its implications with respect to anatomical, pathophysiological and neurosurgical perspectives. INTRODUCTION Micro dissection of cadaver is the base on which our knowledge of the human brain is built. Thorough knowledge of the microsurgical anatomy and its variations are mandatory to adopt the best possible techniques and to have good functional outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was conducted with dissection of 60 brains in the autopsy theatre of Coimbatore Medical College. After injecting red colour to the anterior circulation vessels, magnifying loupes and Vernier callipers were used to take measurements. RESULTS Mean outer diameter of A1 segment was 2.53 mm. Most Right& Left A1 segments had equal length with an average length of 13.7mm. ACom artery measurements revealed a mean diameter of 1.63mm. The mean length of ACom artery was found to be 2.1 mm. In 63 % of cases Recurrent artery of Heubner had arisen from A2. CONCLUSION Understanding the microvascular anatomy of anterior circulation in cadavers will pave the way for better surgical outcome.