Basilar Artery

What is the basilar artery?

The basilar artery is a major vessel of the brain’s posterior circulation. It usually forms where the two vertebral arteries join near the junction of the medulla and pons. It runs along the front of the pons and divides into the posterior cerebral arteries.

Basilar artery branches and blood supply

The StatPearls anatomical reference describes its pontine branches and the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) and superior cerebellar artery (SCA). These supply parts of the brainstem and cerebellum, while its terminal branches contribute to circulation in the posterior cerebral hemispheres.

The entire brainstem and cerebellum are not supplied by the basilar artery alone. Vertebral artery branches also contribute, and branching patterns vary.

Basilar artery occlusion

Basilar artery occlusion means a blockage of this artery. It can interrupt blood flow to critical regions and cause a severe stroke. It is a medical emergency. The resulting impairment depends on the site and extent of the blockage.