A new classification system for the anatomical variations of the human circle of Willis: A systematic review.

ABSTRACT: The circle of Willis (CoW) is an anastomotic arterial network located on the base of the brain. Studies have shown that it demonstrates considerable anatomical variation in humans. This systematic review aimed to identify and catalogue the described anatomical variations of the CoW in humans to create a new, comprehensive variation classification system. An electronic literature search of five databases identified 5899 studies. A two-phase screening process was performed, and studies underwent quality assessment. A total of 42 studies were included in the review. Data were extracted and circles were reconstructed digitally using graphics software. The classification system contains 82 CoW variations in five continuous groups. Group one contains 24 circles with one or more hypoplastic segme

SUBMITTER: Ayre JR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9119622 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature