Anatomical investigation of the morphometry of the cerebral arteries using digital subtraction angiography in the Thai population

Purpose: The main purpose of this study was to investigate the dimensions of cerebral arteries in the Thai population using digital subtraction angiography (DSA), with a focus on the anterior cerebral artery (ACA), middle cerebral artery (MCA), and posterior cerebral artery (PCA). The research aimed to explore anatomical variations in diameters and lengths of these arteries across different sexes and age groups, which are crucial for cerebrovascular interventions.

Methods: This retrospective study measured the diameters and lengths of the ACA, MCA, and PCA in 177 Thai patients with an average age of 47.6 years (range: 11-82 years) with normal cerebral angiograms. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) was used for the measurements.

Results: The study found significant sex-based differences in the mean diameters of the left ACA (males: 2.12 ± 0.28 mm, females: 1.92 ± 0.20 mm; p < 0.01), right MCA (males: 2.50 ± 0.25 mm, females: 2.31 ± 0.17 mm; p < 0.01), and left MCA (males: 2.44 ± 0.19 mm, females: 2.30 ± 0.17 mm; p < 0.01) with males exhibiting larger diameters. The right ACA length was significantly longer in males (15.46 ± 1.74 mm) compared to females (13.98 ± 1.92 mm; p < 0.01). While no significant age-related differences were observed in diameters, a significant increase in length with age was noted for the left ACA in the ≥ 60 years group (13.61 ± 1.64 mm) compared to the < 60 years group (12.63 ± 1.36 mm; p < 0.01). Among others, significant correlations were found between the diameters of the left ACA and right MCA (r = 0.699; p < 0.01), and a strong correlation between left ACA length and left PCA diameter (r = 0.975; p < 0.01).

Conclusion: The findings provide invaluable data for tailoring neurosurgical approaches and designing angiographic equipment for the Thai population, emphasizing the importance of considering anatomical variations in clinical practice. These results highlight the necessity for personalized medical care based on anatomical differences to improve cerebrovascular intervention outcomes.