Microsurgical anatomy of the anterior choroidal artery.

The anterior choroidal artery (A.ch.a.) was studied in 140 hemispheres of the human brain. In 50 specimens the artery was cannulated and perfused with acrylic resin, in 20 specimens the A.ch.a., was selectively cannulated and perfused with dye. The artery then was microsurgically dissected and photographically documented. The site of origin of the A.ch.a., its length, outer diameter, course, branching patterns, anastomoses, and areas of supply was recorded. The surgical and diagnostic significance of the A.ch.a. and its importance during surgical procedures are discussed.