Neurosurgery Coding Alert

Anterior, middle, and posterior cerebral arteries are key.

Before you attempt coding for embolism in the cerebral arteries, you should know the key components of cerebral circulation. There are two main parts of the cerebral circulation:

• Anterior cerebral circulation: This is formed by the anterior and middle cerebral arteries, and 
• Posterior cerebral circulation: This is formed by the basilar and posterior cerebral arteries.

The anterior, middle, and posterior middle cerebral arteries on the right and left side together form a circular array of blood vessels called the ‘Circle of Willis.’ 

The arteries that arise from the basilar artery supply the cerebellum. Besides these key vascular branches, there are other arteries like the anterior communicating arteries, posterior inferior cerebellar arteries, pontine arteries, and others.