Middle Cerebral Artery (Noun)
Meaning
One of two branches of the internal carotid artery; divides into three branches.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The middle cerebral artery is the largest cerebral artery and is typically the largest terminal branch of the internal carotid artery, supplying a significant portion of the lateral surface of the brain with oxygenated blood.
- In a stroke caused by occlusion of the middle cerebral artery, symptoms may include contralateral hemiparesis, hemisensory loss, and visual field deficits.
- Damage to the middle cerebral artery can lead to various cognitive and motor impairments depending on the area and extent of the affected brain tissue.
- A cerebral angiogram may be performed to visualize the middle cerebral artery and assess for potential stenosis or blockages that may require surgical intervention.
- Branches of the middle cerebral artery supply blood to large areas of the brain's frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes, which control critical functions such as movement, sensation, and language.