Cerebral arterial mapping in the equine brain: a detailed anatomical study

Introduction: Detailed knowledge of the cerebral arterial system in equine brain is required for advancing neuroanatomical understanding and supporting the interpretation of neurological disorders. The equine cerebrum, characterized by extensive cortical organization and functional specialization, requires a continuous arterial blood supply; however, detailed information on its arterial anatomy remains limited. This study aimed to describe the arterial supply to the equine cerebrum, including the origin, branching patterns, and distribution of the major cerebral arteries.

Methods: Ten adult horse heads were examined following formaldehyde fixation and colored latex injection through the common carotid arteries. Dissections were performed, and the arteries were documented using multi-angled photographic analysis.

Results: A complete and symmetrical circle of Willis was formed by internal carotid branches connecting the carotid and basilar systems. The rostral cerebral artery supplied the rostromedial cortex and corpus callosum; the middle cerebral artery supplied the lateral and dorsolateral cortical surfaces; and the caudal cerebral artery supplied the occipital and caudal temporal lobes. Minor anatomical variations were observed, including interhemispheric anastomoses in 60% of specimens; however, the overall arrangement remained consistent across the examined specimens (n = 10).

Discussion: These findings provide a detailed anatomical characterization of cerebral arterial branching patterns in the equine brain and serve as an anatomical reference that may support the interpretation of cerebral imaging and inform future comparative and clinical investigations.