Pääverisuonet

Pääverisuonet, the major blood vessels of the head, are a critical network responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the brain and other vital structures of the head, as well as draining deoxygenated blood away. This complex system is comprised of arteries and veins, each with distinct roles.

The primary arterial supply to the brain originates from two main pairs of vessels: the internal carotid arteries and the vertebral arteries. The internal carotid arteries ascend from the neck, branching within the skull to supply the anterior and middle parts of the cerebrum. The vertebral arteries, also originating in the neck, travel through the cervical vertebrae before merging at the base of the brain to form the basilar artery. The basilar artery then further divides, supplying the posterior parts of the brain, including the cerebellum and brainstem. These arteries form an intricate network known as the Circle of Willis, which allows for collateral circulation, meaning blood can be rerouted if one of the main vessels becomes partially blocked.

Venous drainage from the head is primarily accomplished by the dural venous sinuses and the internal jugular veins. The dural venous sinuses are channels located between layers of the dura mater, the tough outer membrane of the brain. These sinuses collect deoxygenated blood from the brain and surrounding tissues and eventually drain into the internal jugular veins. The internal jugular veins then carry this deoxygenated blood down the neck and into the superior vena cava, returning it to the heart. Understanding the anatomy and function of pääverisuonet is crucial in diagnosing and treating various neurological conditions, strokes, and head injuries.