13/09/2022
CIRCLE OF WILLIS
The circle of Willis is an important junction of arteries at the base of the brain. The structure encircles the middle area of the brain, including the stalk of the pituitary gland and other important structures.
Two arteries, called the carotid arteries, supply blood to the brain. They run along either side of the neck and lead directly to the circle of Willis.
Each carotid artery branches into an internal and external carotid artery. The internal carotid artery then branches into the cerebral arteries. This structure allows all of the blood from the two internal carotid arteries to pass through the circle of Willis.
FUNCTION OF CIRCLE OF WILLIS
it allows for proper blood flow from the arteries to both the front and back hemispheres of the brain.
The circle of Willis also serves as a sort of safety mechanism when it comes to blood flow. If a blockage or narrowing slows or prevents the blood flow in a connected artery, the change in pressure can cause blood to flow forward or backward in the circle of Willis to compensate.
This mechanism could also help blood flow from one side of the brain to the other in a situation in which the arteries on one side have reduced blood flow. In an emergency, such as a stroke, this may reduce the damage or aftereffects of the event.
Importantly, the circle of Willis does not actively carry out the function. Instead, the natural shape of the circle and the way that pressure acts in the area simply allow for bidirectional blood flow when necessary.
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