MRI and MR-angiography of persistent trigeminal artery and its variant

We describe the magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance angiography findings in 5 cases of persistent trigeminal artery, and in two cases of variant trigeminal artery. Six patients underwent complete four-vessel angiography, performed to depict other pathology. Magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance angiography allowed in each case to visualize this artery and to precise its latero- or intra-sellar situation. The variant is not defined on conventional magnetic resonance imaging, but may be individualized on magnetic resonance angiography. In each case, identification of these persistent artery is crucial if surgery of sellar or gasserian region is planned. (authors)