Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) is an artery of the hindbrain. It is the largest branch of the vertebral artery. It supplies blood to the inferior cerebellum, medulla oblongata, and parts of the fourth ventricle. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The posterior inferior cerebellar artery arises from the vertebral artery at the level of the medulla oblongata. From here, it ascends posteriorly, passing behind the origin of the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves to reach the inferior border of the pons. It then curves medially and descends along the margin of the fourth ventricle, before turning laterally into the cerebellomedullary fissure (the space between the cerebellum and medulla). Within the fissure, the PICA divides into two main terminal branches: Medial branch – courses along the inferior vermis (midline of the cerebellum), supplying the cerebellum and adjacent medullary structures. Lateral branch – extends over the inferior surface of the cerebellar hemisphere, supplying the cerebellar cortex and tonsils. Adapted from work by Petit B [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons Fig 1The origin of the posterior inferior cerebellar artery from the vertebral artery. Supply The posterior inferior cerebellar artery supplies the following structures: Dorsolateral medulla Inferior surface of the cerebellum, including the tonsils and vermis Choroid plexus of the fourth ventricle Frequent questions What is the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA)? The posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) is a significant artery in the hindbrain that branches from the vertebral artery. It primarily supplies blood to the inferior cerebellum, the medulla oblongata, and portions of the fourth ventricle. What structures are supplied by the posterior inferior cerebellar artery? The PICA supplies several critical structures, including the dorsolateral medulla, the inferior surface of the cerebellum (specifically the tonsils and vermis), and the choroid plexus of the fourth ventricle. This vascular supply is essential for the proper function of these brain regions. Where does the posterior inferior cerebellar artery originate? The PICA arises from the vertebral artery at the level of the medulla oblongata. Its course takes it posteriorly behind the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves before reaching the inferior border of the pons. How does the posterior inferior cerebellar artery course through the brain? After originating from the vertebral artery, the PICA ascends posteriorly, curves medially, and descends along the margin of the fourth ventricle. It then enters the cerebellomedullary fissure, where it splits into its medial and lateral branches. What are the main branches of the posterior inferior cerebellar artery? The PICA divides into two primary branches within the cerebellomedullary fissure: the medial branch, which supplies the inferior vermis and adjacent medullary structures, and the lateral branch, which supplies the inferior surface of the cerebellar hemisphere. These branches are crucial for delivering blood to specific areas of the cerebellum and medulla. Rate This Article