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Temporopolar artery

The temporopolar artery is the most anterior cortical branch of the middle cerebral artery (MCA), usually arising from the M1 or proximal M2 segment. It courses anteriorly and inferiorly to supply the temporal pole, including the anterior portion of the temporal cortex, uncus, and anterior parahippocampal gyrus. This region is functionally significant for olfaction, memory, and limbic system integration. The temporopolar artery often anastomoses with branches of the anterior temporal artery and orbitofrontal arteries, providing collateral circulation.

Synonyms

  • Anterior temporal pole artery

  • Temporal polar branch of MCA

  • Cortical branch of MCA (temporal pole)

Function

  • Provides arterial supply to the temporal pole and adjacent limbic structures

  • Supports regions responsible for olfaction, memory, and emotional processing

  • Contributes to cortical collateral flow through anastomoses with anterior temporal and orbitofrontal arteries

  • Plays a protective role in maintaining perfusion of mesial temporal structures during vascular compromise

MRI Appearance

T1-weighted images (non-contrast):

  • Artery appears as a flow void (signal loss) within the temporal sulci

  • Not well visualized without angiographic sequences

T2-weighted images:

  • Demonstrates linear flow voids along the cortical sulci of the temporal pole

  • Adjacent hyperintensity in cortex may suggest ischemic changes or pathology

MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography):

  • Time-of-flight (TOF) or contrast-enhanced MRA shows the origin from proximal MCA and course toward the temporal pole

  • Normal artery appears as a bright enhancing lumen

  • MRA detects stenosis, occlusion, aneurysms, or arteriovenous malformations involving the temporopolar artery

T1 Post-Contrast (Gadolinium-enhanced MRI):

  • Artery lumen shows strong enhancement

  • Helpful for delineating small branches at the temporal pole when combined with MRA

CT Appearance

Non-contrast CT:

  • Artery is not directly visualized

  • Acute thrombosis may present as a hyperdense artery sign in the temporal sulci

CT Angiography (CTA):

  • Clearly demonstrates the origin, course, and distribution of the temporopolar artery

  • Contrast-enhanced lumen allows evaluation of stenosis, occlusion, aneurysm, or AVM

  • CTA is highly useful in stroke mapping and preoperative planning for temporal lobe surgery

MRI images

Temporopolar artery mri sagittal image -img-00000-00000

MRI images

Temporopolar artery