Parietal branches of pericallosal artery

The parietal branches of pericallosal artery are cortical branches of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) that arise from the distal pericallosal artery within the cingulate sulcus. They course postero-superiorly over the medial aspect of the cerebral hemisphere toward its superomedial border.

Branches and vascular distribution

While substantial anatomical variation exists, prominent named parietal branches of pericallosal artery include the paracentral artery, and the superior and inferior parietal arteries.

They vascularize key medial parasagittal structures, including the paracentral lobule (its posterior, sensory portion and the adjacent anterior motor region), precuneus and adjacent medial parietal cortex.

Clinical correlates

The supplied paracentral region corresponds to the homuncular representation of the contralateral lower limb, foot, and perineum. Ischemic occlusion of these parietal branches characteristically produces:

• Contralateral lower-limb sensorimotor deficits (with relative sparing of the upper extremity and face).

• Urinary incontinence or urgency due to disruption of the paracentral micturition centre, typically prominent in bilateral or extensive distal ACA territory infarctions.