Which artery, when present, can help preserve central vision in central retinal artery occlusion?

Which artery, when present, can help preserve central vision in central retinal artery occlusion?

• A. Cilioretinal artery
• B. Short posterior ciliary arteries
• C. Long posterior ciliary arteries
• D. Central retinal artery

Answer: (A)

In central retinal artery occlusion, the inner retina normally loses its main blood supply, causing acute vision loss. An accessory vessel called the cilioretinal artery can change that outcome. When present, it originates from the short posterior ciliary arteries (or choroidal circulation) and enters the retina to supply the macular region. If this artery remains patent, it can perfuse the parafoveal retina and help preserve central vision even though the central retinal artery is occluded. The other arteries listed mainly feed the choroid or outer retina and do not provide a reliable backup supply to the inner retina at the fovea, so they don’t typically preserve central vision in CRAO.

In central retinal artery occlusion, the inner retina normally loses its main blood supply, causing acute vision loss. An accessory vessel called the cilioretinal artery can change that outcome. When present, it originates from the short posterior ciliary arteries (or choroidal circulation) and enters the retina to supply the macular region. If this artery remains patent, it can perfuse the parafoveal retina and help preserve central vision even though the central retinal artery is occluded. The other arteries listed mainly feed the choroid or outer retina and do not provide a reliable backup supply to the inner retina at the fovea, so they don’t typically preserve central vision in CRAO.