Definition

Noun: * Basilar Artery: A major blood vessel located at the base of the brain. It is formed by the union of the two vertebral arteries and supplies oxygenated blood to critical areas including the brainstem (pons), cerebellum, the posterior (back) part of the cerebrum, and the inner ear.

Usage

The term "basilar artery" is used specifically in medical, anatomical, and neurological contexts to describe this particular artery and its function or condition. * A blockage in the basilar artery can cause a severe type of stroke. * The basilar artery is a key component of the posterior circulation of the brain. * Doctors used imaging to examine the patient's basilar artery.

Advanced Usage

• "Basilar artery thrombosis": The formation of a blood clot (thrombus) within the basilar artery, which is a life-threatening condition that can lead to a brainstem stroke.
• "Basilar artery occlusion": A complete blockage of the basilar artery, often requiring urgent medical intervention.
• "Basilar artery migraine": A rare and severe type of migraine headache thought to be related to changes in blood flow in the basilar artery region, often affecting vision and balance.

Variants and Related Words

• Basilar (adjective): Of or relating to the base of a structure, especially the base of the skull or brain. (e.g., ).
• Vertebrobasilar system (noun): The collective term for the vertebral arteries and the basilar artery, which together supply the posterior part of the brain.

Synonyms

• Arteria basilaris: The formal Latin anatomical term.

Related Anatomical Structures

• Vertebral arteries: The two arteries that join to form the basilar artery.
• Circle of Willis: The circular network of arteries at the base of the brain where the basilar artery connects via its terminal branches (the posterior cerebral arteries).
• Brainstem: A primary region supplied by the basilar artery, controlling vital functions like breathing and heart rate.
• Cerebellum: The part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance, supplied by branches of the basilar artery.

Noun

1. an unpaired artery; supplies the pons and cerebellum and the back part of the cerebrum and the inner ear