The internal carotid in the Basilar artery are interconnected by an anastomosis
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: True
The internal carotid artery and the basilar artery are interconnected through an anastomosis known as the Circle of Willis.
The Circle of Willis is a circular arterial structure located at the base of the brain. It serves as a critical junction where major arteries supplying the brain interconnect. This structure includes contributions from both the internal carotid arteries and the vertebrobasilar system.
The internal carotid arteries enter the brain and give rise to the anterior cerebral arteries and the middle cerebral arteries. One of the key branches of the internal carotid is the posterior communicating artery, which connects the internal carotid artery with the posterior cerebral artery. The posterior cerebral artery is a terminal branch of the basilar artery, which is formed by the union of the two vertebral arteries.
The posterior communicating arteries serve as the actual anastomotic connection between the internal carotid system and the vertebrobasilar system. Through this connection, blood can flow between these two major arterial systems of the brain. If one part of the Circle of Willis becomes narrowed or blocked, the circular structure allows blood to be redirected and continue supplying the affected brain region.
This anastomosis plays an important role in protecting the brain from ischemic events. It provides a collateral circulation route in cases of arterial obstruction or reduced blood flow in one part of the cerebral circulation. The Circle of Willis helps maintain a stable and continuous blood supply to critical brain tissues, which is essential for proper neurological function and survival.
In summary, the internal carotid and basilar arteries are indeed interconnected through the Circle of Willis by way of the posterior communicating arteries, forming a vital anastomotic network in the brain.