Anatomic variants of the anterior part of the cerebral arterial circle at multidetector computed tomography angiography

Abstract

Imaging of the cerebral arterial circle (CAC) is essential in neurovascular diseases such as ischemic stroke for detecting arterial occlusions and evaluating arterial supply, and in subarachnoid or intralobar hemorrhage for detecting intracranial malformations. Multidetector computed tomography angiography (MD-CTA) is increasingly being used for the detection and treatment planning of intracranial aneurysm. For optimal interpretation and treatment planning, this method requires suitable post-processing equipment, and extensive knowledge of the relevant anatomy and anatomical variants. Anatomical variants of the CAC are common, particularly in the anterior CAC, the most common site of intracranial aneurysm. The aim of this review is to illustrate the normal anatomy and most common anatomical variants of the anterior CAC detected by MD-CTA, and to discuss the relevant embryological and technical considerations.