Circle of Willis immaturity
Incomplete development of cerebral arterial circulation in pediatric patients affecting anesthetic blood pressure management.
Full Definition
The Circle of Willis, a critical arterial structure providing cerebral blood flow, develops incompletely in infants and young children. This anatomical immaturity creates vulnerability to cerebral hypoperfusion during anesthesia when blood pressure drops. Anesthesiologists must maintain higher mean arterial pressures in pediatric patients compared to adults to ensure adequate cerebral perfusion. The structure typically matures by age 2-3 years, with significant implications for intraoperative hemodynamic management and autoregulation capacity.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate when used as a compound modifier before a noun.
In Context
- "Given the Circle of Willis immaturity in this 6-month-old patient, we maintained MAP above 45 mmHg throughout the procedure." — Anesthesia record
- "The anesthesiologist considered Circle of Willis immaturity when establishing hemodynamic targets for the neonatal cardiac repair." — Surgical consultation note