Part 1

Much of the brain is supplied blood by the internal carotid arteries.

Part 1

Part 2

The internal carotid arteries branch at the base of the brain in an area called the circle of Willis.

Part 2

Part 3

A blood clot (thrombus) may form in the body, break-off, and travel to the brain through a carotid artery and the circle of Willis.

Part 3

Part 4

The blood clot may block the passage of blood through a brain artery, depriving nearby tissue of oxygen and nutrients. The result is a stroke.

Part 4

Review Date:

6/24/2011

Reviewed By:

Reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.