Posterior cerebral artery

A key vessel supplying oxygenated blood to the brain, specifically the occipital lobe and parts of the temporal lobe.

The posterior cerebral artery (PCA) is one of the major blood vessels that provides blood supply to the brain. Branching off from the basilar artery, it plays a vital role in delivering oxygen and nutrients necessary for the healthy functioning of specific brain regions, particularly those associated with vision and memory.

Terminologia Anatomica

arteria cerebri posterior

System

Circulatory system

Function

The primary function of the posterior cerebral artery is to supply blood to the occipital lobe, which is responsible for processing visual information, as well as parts of the temporal lobe involved in visual memory and recognition. Since the brain relies heavily on a robust and well-regulated blood supply, the PCA ensures that these areas receive adequate oxygen and essential nutrients. Any disturbance or blockage in this artery can lead to significant neurological effects, including visual impairments or difficulties in recognizing familiar objects, highlighting the crucial role this artery plays in maintaining cognitive and sensory functions. The PCA's contribution to the brain's perfusion extends to other critical structures, including the thalamus, which acts as a relay station for sensory information, underscoring its importance in overall brain health.

Location

The posterior cerebral artery is located at the base of the brain, branching off from the basilar artery, which itself is formed by the confluence of the two vertebral arteries. The PCA travels laterally and posteriorly along the undersurface of the brain. It arches around the midbrain and extends to the occipital lobe, giving off multiple branches that supply various regions of the brain. Its proximity to other crucial cerebral vessels, such as the middle cerebral artery and anterior cerebral artery, allows for a complex network of blood supply to the overall brain architecture, ensuring that the brain's metabolic demands are efficiently met.

Did You Know?

Blockages in the posterior cerebral artery can lead to visual field deficits, such as homonymous hemianopia, where half of the visual field is lost.
The PCA also supplies blood to the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory formation.
Anatomical variations exist in the PCA, which can affect how blood is distributed in the brain, potentially influencing individual susceptibility to strokes or other neurological conditions.