Question

Why is damage to the Circle of Willis often clinically insignificant?

Answer 1

The Circle of Willis is often clinically insignificant because:

1. The Circle of Willis is a group of vascular structures that surround the brain stem and divert main arteries to the cerebral hemispheres.
2. The internal carotid arteries branch into smaller arteries at the Circle of Willis, supplying oxygenated blood to almost 80% of the cerebrum.
3. Because the circle enables collateral flow (via the posterior, anterior, and posterior communicating arteries).
4. A blockage in any of the four arteries that supply the brain, or even harm to the Circle itself, is usually unimportant clinically.