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Neurovascular Model:

Circle of Willis Model

Multiple approaches in one single model: Stroke Treatment, Aneurysm Treatment with different dome-neck ratio, Mechanical Thrombectomy with access point to remove clot and use endovascular devices, to try out different Catheterization techniques

Easily exchangeable with different levels of complexity and challenges

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3D Model
Reusable
Perfusion Closed-loop System
Angio-Compatible
Ultra Transparent
Optical Navigation Compatible
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Frequently asked questions

These are the most commonly asked questions. can't find what you are looking for use our chatbot.

  • What is the circle of Willis, and what does it do?

    The circle of Willis is a ring-like network of arteries located at the base of the brain. Comprised of interconnected circles of Willis arteries, it functions as a vital safety mechanism by providing collateral blood flow. This redundancy ensures that alternative routes can maintain cerebral perfusion even if one pathway becomes blocked. Understanding what a circle of Willis is highlights its importance in sustaining brain function and its role in stroke treatment guidelines.

  • What happens if Willis' circle is damaged?

    Damage to the circle of Willis can significantly impair its ability to provide sufficient blood flow, heightening the risk of an ischemic stroke. When this crucial circle of Willis structure is compromised, the brain may not receive enough oxygenated blood. In such scenarios, treatments include a catheterization or a mechanical thrombectomy procedure using specialized mechanical thrombectomy devices to re-establish circulation and prevent further damage.

  • What is the most common anomaly of the circle of Willis?

    The most common anomaly in the circle of Willis's anatomy is an incomplete or asymmetric configuration. Such variations can reduce the effectiveness of the collateral network, thereby influencing the overall circle of the Willis function. Recognizing these differences is essential, as they can affect how well the brain compensates during an occlusive event and guide adherence to stroke treatment guidelines.

  • What is the primary function of the circle of Willis?

    The primary function of the circle of Willis is to serve as a backup system that ensures a continuous blood supply to the brain. Linking various circles of Willis arteries offers collateral circulation that can compensate if one pathway becomes obstructed. This function safeguards normal brain activities and plays a pivotal role in managing acute stroke events, reinforcing the circle of Willis's function and importance.

  • What happens if Willis's circle is blocked?

    A blockage within the circle of Willis can lead to a significant drop in blood flow, potentially triggering an ischemic stroke. In these cases, time-sensitive interventions are essential. Physicians might often perform a mechanical thrombectomy procedure using devices such as the Penumbra Aspiration System or Embotrap revascularization device to clear the occlusion. Additionally, techniques like Carotid and Intracranial Recanalization, sometimes with the help of distal access catheters for stroke treatment or clot aspiration systems for ischemic stroke, are crucial for restoring perfusion.

  • How do you treat a circle of Willis aneurysm?

    Treating a circle of Willis aneurysm generally involves a multidisciplinary approach. Treatment options include surgical clipping or endovascular techniques Depending on the size, location, and whether the circle of Willis aneurysm symptoms are present. A catheterization procedure guided by imaging technologies, such as a circle of Willis 3d model or a circle of Willis anatomy model, is often used for endovascular treatment. Advanced interventional tools like Ace Catheters, Zoom Stroke Solution, Solitaire stent retriever Medtronic, Trevo stent retriever Stryker, and other mechanical thrombectomy devices can also play a role when complications arise.

  • What is the most common aneurysm in the circle of Willis?

    Aneurysms within the circle of Willis most commonly occur at the branching points of its arterial network. The anterior communicating artery region, in particular, is frequently affected. This is an important focus area because early recognition of the circle of Willis's aneurysm symptoms can lead to timely intervention, ensuring adherence to current stroke treatment guidelines.

  • What questions should you ask a stroke patient?

    When assessing a stroke patient, consider asking:
    • When did the symptoms start, and how long have they been present?
    • Have you experienced sudden weakness, numbness, or facial drooping?
    • Are you having difficulty speaking or understanding language?
    • Do you have any history of vascular issues or previous incidents involving the circle of Willis?
    • Have you ever undergone a catheterization procedure or a mechanical thrombectomy for stroke treatment?
    • Do you know if you have any known anomalies in your brain circle of Willis or related cerebrovascular conditions?

  • Is mechanical thrombectomy a major surgery?

    Mechanical thrombectomy is not considered a major open surgery; it is a minimally invasive procedure. A catheterization procedure is used to navigate mechanical thrombectomy devices into the cerebral circulation, often targeting blockages within the brain circle of Willis. Devices such as the Solitaire stent retriever Medtronic or Trevo stent retriever Stryker are standard tools, making the approach less invasive than traditional surgery while still critical to stroke treatment guidelines.

  • What are the criteria for mechanical thrombectomy?

    The criteria for mechanical thrombectomy involve several key factors:
    • Time window since stroke onset.
    • Clot location and size are determined by imaging.
    • Brain tissue viability is often assessed via a circle of Willis 3d model or other imaging techniques to understand the circle of Willis anatomy.
    • Patient-specific factors, including the status of the circle of Willis arteries and overall potential for Carotid and Intracranial Recanalization.
    These factors align with established stroke treatment guidelines and help determine if a patient is a candidate for the procedure.

  • What is the circle of the Willis flow model?

    The circle of Willis flow model is a simulation framework used to study blood flow dynamics within the cerebral arterial circle. This model:
    • Demonstrates the circle of Willis function by showing how blood distributes across the circle of Willis structure.
    • It is often represented as a circle of the Willis 3d model or a circle of the Willis anatomy model.
    • It aids in educational settings and preoperative planning, such as evaluating how blood flow is affected during a mechanical thrombectomy procedure.
    This simulation is invaluable for understanding normal physiology and pathological conditions like a circle of Willis aneurysms.

  • What is the clinical importance of the circle of Willis?

    The Circle of Willis is a critical vascular network located at the base of the brain. Its clinical importance lies in its ability to:
    • Ensure collateral blood flow during vascular occlusions, essential in stroke scenarios.
    • It is a diagnostic reference when evaluating a circle of Willis aneurysms or related anomalies.
    • Assist clinicians in understanding the function of the circle of Willis in maintaining cerebral perfusion.
    • Be visualized using a circle of Willis 3d model, which aids in surgical planning and educational demonstrations.
    Understanding the circle of Willis's anatomy is thus pivotal for both surgical training and the effective management of ischemic strokes.

  • What is an easy way to remember the circle of Willis?

    A straightforward mnemonic for the circle of Willis is to envision it as the brain's protective ring of arteries. Remember:
    • It comprises major arterial segments that form a circular configuration at the brain's base.
    • Visual aids, such as a circle of Willis 3D model or a circle of Willis anatomy model, can simplify memorization.
    • Focusing on its primary role in ensuring consistent blood flow, even if one part is compromised, you can recall what area circle of Willis and its circle of Willis function effectively.

  • What are the three primary pairs of vessels that compose the circle of Willis?

    The circle of Willis is mainly formed by the following three pairs of arteries:
    • Anterior cerebral arteries
    • Internal carotid arteries
    • Posterior cerebral arteries
    These vessels work collectively to maintain collateral circulation in the brain, making the circle of Willis structure a key player in normal cerebral perfusion and in procedures like the catheterization procedure used during mechanical thrombectomy stroke interventions.

  • What are the risks of mechanical thrombectomy?

    While mechanical thrombectomy is generally safe, there are some inherent risks, including:
    • Vessel injury or dissection.
    • Hemorrhage or bleeding complications.
    • Potential for distal embolization during the catheterization procedure.
    Advanced devices such as the Penumbra Aspiration System, Embotrap revascularization device, Ace Catheters, and clot aspiration systems for ischemic stroke (e.g., Zoom Stroke Solution) aim to reduce these risks. However, like any procedure that involves mechanical thrombectomy devices, patient selection and adherence to stroke treatment guidelines are essential to minimize complications.

  • What is a CTA of the circle of Willis?

    A CTA (Computed Tomographic Angiography) of the Circle of Willis is a non-invasive imaging test that uses CT scanning and contrast dye to visualize the brain's vascular network. This test highlights the circle of Willis arteries and the overall circle of Willis anatomy, helping clinicians detect issues such as a circle of Willis aneurysms and assess stroke treatment guidelines. It is an essential tool to understand what a circle of Willis is and evaluate its structure and function.

  • What is the cost of thrombectomy surgery?

    The cost of thrombectomy surgery can vary widely based on factors such as hospital location, complexity of the procedure, and the specific devices used. This procedure, often referred to as a mechanical thrombectomy procedure, may involve advanced mechanical thrombectomy devices like the Penumbra Aspiration System, Solitaire stent retriever Medtronic, Trevo stent retriever Stryker, or the Embotrap revascularization device. For an accurate cost estimate, it is best to consult your healthcare provider or local billing department.

  • How much does mechanical thrombectomy cost?

    The cost of mechanical thrombectomy, a minimally invasive procedure to remove clots during an ischemic stroke, depends on facility fees, device utilization, and regional pricing differences. Devices such as Ace Catheters, clot aspiration systems for ischemic stroke, and distal access catheters for stroke treatment can affect the price. Since costs vary, we recommend discussing details with your healthcare provider or insurance representative to obtain a specific estimate.

  • What percentage of people have a complete circle of Willis?

    Studies suggest that approximately 40-50% of individuals possess a complete Circle of Willis. Variations in the circle of Willis's arteries and overall anatomy can affect its function, which is crucial for maintaining collateral blood flow in the brain. Understanding the importance of the circle of Willis helps guide stroke treatment guidelines and intervention decisions.

  • Does Medicare pay for a cardiac catheterization?

    Medicare typically covers medically necessary cardiac procedures, including various catheterization procedures. However, coverage may differ depending on individual circumstances and the specifics of the procedure. Therefore, verifying with Medicare or consulting your healthcare provider to confirm the current coverage details is advisable.

  • What is the CPT code for the catheterization procedure?

    CPT codes for catheterization procedures vary depending on the type (diagnostic versus interventional) and complexity of the procedure. For instance, codes differ for a simple diagnostic catheterization compared to those used in therapeutic interventions. Please consult the latest CPT guidelines or your hospital's billing department for the most accurate and current CPT coding information.

  • What is the rate of thrombectomy?

    The rate at which thrombectomy procedures are performed has been increasing as more hospitals adopt advanced stroke treatment guidelines. Factors such as improved patient selection criteria, increased awareness of mechanical thrombectomy stroke treatment, and technological advancements in devices, including innovations in Carotid and Intracranial Recanalization and solutions like Zoom Stroke Solution, have contributed to this rise. Consult recent clinical studies or your local healthcare authority for the most current procedural statistics.