vertebrobasilar

1 9.9

Relating to the backbone and the main artery at the base of the brain

adjective
/ˌvɜːrtəbroʊˈbeɪzɪlər/

Specialized

: vertebrobasilar

A vertebrobasilar stroke can cause dizziness, double vision, and difficulty speaking.

Examples

Imaging revealed a blockage in the vertebrobasilar arteries supplying the brainstem.
The vertebrobasilar system is crucial for blood supply to the brain.
Doctors examined the patient's vertebrobasilar system for signs of restricted blood flow.
Patients with vertebrobasilar insufficiency may experience dizziness.
A vertebrobasilar stroke can cause dizziness, double vision, and difficulty speaking.
Doctors examined the patient's vertebrobasilar system for signs of restricted blood flow.
Imaging revealed a blockage in the vertebrobasilar arteries supplying the brainstem.

Surface Forms

vertebrobasilar positive

Morphology

vertebrobasilar = vertebra + basilar (semi-transparent) = vertebro + basilar

Compound of the combining form 'vertebro-' (not a standalone word) and 'basilar'; the medical terminology and combining form make it less transparent to average learners.

Etymology

Vertebrobasilar joins two parts: vertebro-, from vertebra meaning 'backbone' or 'spine', and basilar meaning 'base', as in the basilar artery at the base of the brain. So, vertebrobasilar describes the blood vessels that connect the spine and the base of the brain, which is why doctors use it when they talk about blood flow to that area.