Circle of Willis anatomical variations: A multidetector computed tomography angiography study

Abstract

Objectives: to detect Circle of Willis variations through using multidetector computed tomography angiography. Background: The Circle of Willis is an anastomosis that connects the cerebral arteries, providing collateral routes in the event of arterial occlusion. There are numerous anatomical variations for these arteries. Understanding these variations is crucial because previous research has linked them to a higher risk of stroke and because they are more common in patients with migraine disorders. Patients and Methods: Eighty patients underwent computed tomography angiography. Circle of Willis completion was assessed as complete, partially incomplete, or totally incomplete. It was determined whether it was fetal, adult, or transitional. Circle of Willis variations such as hypoplasia and aplasia were assessed. Additionally, they were evaluated in terms of gender and laterality. Results: This study included 80 patients, including 51 men and 28 women. 51.3% of the time, incomplete circles of Willis were found. More females than males (55.2% vs. 49%) exhibit incompleteness of the circle of Willis. 30% of the anterior circle of Willis was found to be incomplete, compared to 36.3% of the posterior circle. Fetal posterior cerebral artery, or fetal circulation, was 6.2%. Anterior communicating artery hypoplasia/aplasia was the most prevalent variation, occurring in 20%, followed by posterior communicating artery in 17.5%. Conclusions: Through the use of computed tomography angiography, numerous anatomical variations in the circle of Willis were detected. Anterior communicating artery and posterior communicating artery hypoplasia/aplasia were the two most prevalent variations.