Anatomical Variations and Morphometric Features of the Anterior Cerebral Artery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 24,015 Cases.

Background/

Objectives

The anterior cerebral artery (ACA), as one of the terminal branches of the internal carotid artery, supplies the medial and superior portions of the frontal lobes as well as the anterior portions of the parietal lobes. The present meta-analysis aims to consolidate current knowledge regarding the anatomy and variations in the ACA, providing a comprehensive resource for physicians.

Methods

To conduct this meta-analysis, we systematically searched prominent online medical databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, to identify all studies that investigated the anatomy of the ACA.

Results

The results of the present study were based on a total of 73 articles. In the aforementioned studies, a total of 24,015 patients were evaluated. The pooled mean total length of the A1 segment of the ACA, based on all evaluated cases, was 14.47 mm (SE = 0.28). The pooled mean total diameter of the A1 segment measured 2.00 mm on average (SE = 0.07). The overall pooled prevalence of the median ACA was 2.65% (95% CI: 1.57-3.99%).

Conclusions

This systematic review and meta-analysis provide valuable insights into the anatomy and variations in the ACA. The current data may support clinicians and neurosurgeons in the management of cerebrovascular diseases and associated procedures, potentially enhancing procedural safety and therapeutic outcomes.