Abstract

Introduction: Any changes in the morphology of the constituent arteries of the circle of Willis (CoW) could lead to the appearance of different vascular insufficiency syndromes, the capacity of blood distribution in the arteial circle depending on the state of its component vessels.

Material and Method: There was made a scientifical research of medical data from articles written in the last 16 years, from several international medical libraries and databases such as Google Scholar, and PubMed. There were used the following keywords combinations: “circle of Willis, variants, ischemic stroke”, “ischemic stroke, neurological, circle of Willis” and, rehabilitation, stroke, circle of Willis”.

Results: The study shows that the anatomical changes that lead to the impossibility of this anastomotic structure to maintain an adequate flow at the cerebral level could be classified into four main category types. The variants of the CoW could be ischemic stroke risk associated. Beside the pharmacological treatment, patients who suffered an ischemic stroke or a transient ischemic attack (TIA) episode require a special care within a complex interdisciplinary team of professional practicioners (physicians, nurses, psychologists, speech therapists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists) that would work together for their highest benefit.

Conclusion: The early rehabilitation of such patients should be seen as a priority within the healthcare group of professionals and should include therapy in a multidisciplinary context.