Anatomical Features of Posterior Cerebral Arteries and Basilar Artery in 170 Anatolian Fresh Cadavers: Implications for Surgical Planning and Intervention

Abstract

Background: The posterior cerebral arteries (PCAs) are terminal branches of the basilar artery (BA) and are responsible for the primary supply of the occipital lobe. Saccular aneurysm is most commonly seen close to the bifurcation of the BA. Various surgical interventions are performed for aneurysms. Therefore, the anatomy and localization of the BA and PCA are crucial. The aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of these arteries in a large Anatolian population.

Methods: The study included 170 Anatolian fresh cadavers. The diameters of the BA and PCA were measured. Correlations according to sex and age groups were analyzed. The Q1, Q2, and Q3 angles between the right and left PCA, between the right PCA and BA, and between the left PCA and BA, respectively, were measured. The location of the PCA relative to the sulcus pontocruralis (pontocrural groove) was also evaluated.

Results: The diameter of the artery increased with age and was higher in males than in females. Q1 and Q2 diameters were larger in males, while the Q3 diameter was larger in females. The Q1 angle between the right and left PCAs was found to be higher in age range 40-59 years with a mean of 87.33 ± 17.91 mm. Finally, the bifurcation point of the PCA was most frequently located above the sulcus pontocruralis (pontocrural groove) and least frequently located on the sulcus pontocruralis (pontocrural groove).

Conclusions: The findings of our study will contribute to the planning of surgical approaches, the development of endovascular devices, the success of invasive procedures, and the reduction of complications.

Keywords: Anatolian population; Aneurysm; Basilar artery; Bifurcation; Fresh cadaver; Posterior cerebral artery; Sulcus pontocruralis (pontocrural groove).