Willis' circle, also known as the circle of Willis, is a crucial anatomical structure located at the base of the brain that facilitates the distribution of blood flow to the cerebral hemispheres. This vascular circle comprises interconnected arteries, including the Anterior Cerebral Arteries (ACAs), Middle Cerebral Arteries (MCAs), Posterior Cerebral Arteries (PCAs) and connecting vessels such as the Anterior Communicating Artery (ACoA) and Posterior Communicating Arteries (PCoAs). Aneurysms, abnormal dilations of blood vessels, can develop at various locations along Willis' circle, with Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) aneurysms being one of the most common types. In this review, we explore the geometric anatomy of Willis' circle, focusing on the intricate relationships between its constituent arteries and the predisposition to MCA aneurysm formation. We discuss the clinical significance of MCA aneurysms, including their presentation, risk factors, diagnostic evaluation and management strategies. Furthermore, we examine the role of advanced imaging modalities and surgical techniques in the treatment of MCA aneurysms, highlighting the importance of individualized patient care and multidisciplinary collaboration in optimizing outcomes for patients with this challenging vascular pathology.
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Journal of Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery received 2 citations as per Google Scholar report
