Collicular artery: Difference between revisions

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'''Collicular artery''' refers to a small but significant blood vessel that supplies blood to the [[superior colliculus]] of the [[brain]]. The superior colliculus is an important structure involved in the processing of visual information and the coordination of eye movements. The collicular artery, therefore, plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and functionality of this part of the brain.
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Collicular artery}}


== Anatomy ==
==Collicular artery==
The collicular artery is typically a branch of the [[posterior cerebral artery]], although its origin can vary among individuals. It arises from the posterior cerebral artery as it courses around the midbrain. The artery then travels to the superior colliculus, where it branches out to supply blood to this region. The precise anatomy of the collicular artery can vary, with some individuals having a single artery that supplies both the superior and [[inferior colliculus]], while others may have separate arteries for each colliculus.
The '''collicular artery''' is a small but significant blood vessel in the brain, primarily involved in supplying blood to the [[midbrain]]. It is a branch of the [[posterior cerebral artery]], which is one of the major arteries forming the [[circle of Willis]].


== Function ==
[[File:Collicular_artery.png|thumb|right|Diagram showing the collicular artery and its branches.]]
The primary function of the collicular artery is to provide oxygenated blood to the superior colliculus. This is essential for the normal functioning of the superior colliculus, which is involved in the initial processing of visual stimuli and the generation of reflexive eye movements. The superior colliculus also plays a role in the coordination of head and eye movements, making the collicular artery's role in maintaining its blood supply crucial for these processes.


== Clinical Significance ==
===Anatomy===
Blockage or damage to the collicular artery can lead to various neurological deficits, primarily affecting the visual system. Such damage can result in difficulties with eye movement, depth perception, and the ability to track moving objects. In severe cases, it can lead to [[Collicular Syndrome]], a condition characterized by a range of visual disturbances due to damage to the superior colliculus.
The collicular artery originates from the posterior cerebral artery, which itself is a terminal branch of the [[basilar artery]]. The collicular artery travels posteriorly to supply the [[tectum]] of the midbrain, including the [[superior colliculus]] and [[inferior colliculus]]. These structures are involved in visual and auditory processing, respectively.


== Diagnosis and Treatment ==
===Function===
Diagnosis of issues related to the collicular artery typically involves imaging studies such as [[MRI]] or [[CT scans]] to visualize the blood vessels of the brain and identify any blockages or abnormalities. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the issue. In cases of blockage, procedures to restore blood flow to the affected area may be necessary. This can include surgical interventions or the use of medications to dissolve clots.
The primary function of the collicular artery is to provide oxygenated blood to the superior and inferior colliculi. The superior colliculus is involved in the control of eye movements and visual attention, while the inferior colliculus plays a crucial role in the auditory pathway, processing sound information from the ears before it is relayed to the [[thalamus]] and [[auditory cortex]].


== See Also ==
===Clinical significance===
Occlusion or damage to the collicular artery can lead to deficits in visual and auditory processing. Such vascular events may result in conditions like [[Parinaud's syndrome]], which is characterized by vertical gaze palsy due to damage to the superior colliculus and surrounding structures.
 
==Related pages==
* [[Posterior cerebral artery]]
* [[Posterior cerebral artery]]
* [[Circle of Willis]]
* [[Midbrain]]
* [[Superior colliculus]]
* [[Superior colliculus]]
* [[Inferior colliculus]]
* [[Inferior colliculus]]
* [[Brain blood supply]]


[[Category:Neuroanatomy]]
[[Category:Arteries of the head and neck]]
[[Category:Arteries of the head and neck]]
{{medicine-stub}}

Latest revision as of 11:12, 15 February 2025


Collicular artery[edit]

The collicular artery is a small but significant blood vessel in the brain, primarily involved in supplying blood to the midbrain. It is a branch of the posterior cerebral artery, which is one of the major arteries forming the circle of Willis.

Diagram showing the collicular artery and its branches.

Anatomy[edit]

The collicular artery originates from the posterior cerebral artery, which itself is a terminal branch of the basilar artery. The collicular artery travels posteriorly to supply the tectum of the midbrain, including the superior colliculus and inferior colliculus. These structures are involved in visual and auditory processing, respectively.

Function[edit]

The primary function of the collicular artery is to provide oxygenated blood to the superior and inferior colliculi. The superior colliculus is involved in the control of eye movements and visual attention, while the inferior colliculus plays a crucial role in the auditory pathway, processing sound information from the ears before it is relayed to the thalamus and auditory cortex.

Clinical significance[edit]

Occlusion or damage to the collicular artery can lead to deficits in visual and auditory processing. Such vascular events may result in conditions like Parinaud's syndrome, which is characterized by vertical gaze palsy due to damage to the superior colliculus and surrounding structures.

Related pages[edit]