Callosomarginal artery: an in-depth of anatomical characteristics, clinical significance, neurosurgical considerations, and surgical applications.

Abstract

Introduction: The Callosomarginal artery (CMA) is a terminal branch of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA). It is the main branch and the largest artery branching off from the pericallosal artery and coursing in parallel to it. Its course is posterior to or within the cingulate sulcus of the brain. The Callosomarginal artery (CMA) has several anatomical variations and established neurosurgical applications. The Callosomarginal artery (CMA) is poorly described in the standard anatomical textbooks. Therefore, we conducted this study as an overview to illustrate a complete picture of the anatomical variations and their implications in the neurosurgical field.

Method: We conducted a literature review in Google Scholar and PubMed medical databases to review the literature discussing the CMA, its anatomical variations, and neurosurgical applications.

Results: We identified 40 articles that discuss the CMA's anatomical variations and neurosurgical applications. We noticed the CMA's anatomical variations in origin, course, diameter, branches, depth, and distance from the associated structures. While reviewing the available articles and original works regarding CMA, we also discussed certain applications of CMA and its importance in neurosurgical bypass, embolization, and aneurysms.

Conclusion: Comprehending the anatomy of the CMA is crucial for neurosurgeons to safely and effectively perform procedures such as bypass and embolization. In addition, knowledge of the anatomical variations of the CMA and its clinical significance can help surgeons anticipate potential challenges and tailor their approach accordingly.