AN INSIGHT INTO THE CIRCLE OF WILLIS, ITS VARIATION IN THE FORMATION AND COMPONENT VESSELS IN THE ADULT HUMAN CADAVERS

Introduction: Circle of Willis, is an arterial circle, furnishing arterial supply to most of the brain and meninges. It is formed by the branches of anterior cerebral, middle cerebral and posterior cerebral arteries. However, its formation and a complete arterial circle, differs among individuals.

Objectives: In the present study, an attempt has been made to identify those variations and to segregate them into anterior and posterior circulation.

Methods: Thirty-two cadaveric brains were used for the study. The circle of Willis was identified and painted for better visualisation and then photographed.

Results: The results show that the variations of the anterior circulation exceeded those observed in the posterior circulation.

Conclusions: These variations would add on to the previous findings and thus help the neurosurgeons while operating this region.