The artery of Percheron (AOP) is a rare anatomical variation in the brain vascularization in which a single arterial trunk arises from the posterior cerebral artery (PCA) to supply both sides of the thalamus and midbrain.

The functions of the thalamus and midbrain include the regulation of consciousness, sleep and alertness.

Occlusion of the artery of Percheron, for example by a clot, could result in a posterior circulation infarct impairing structures on both sides of the brain.

This can produce a bizarre disturbance such as sleep from which the patient cannot be awakened.

[2][3][4] ocular group: central retinal This cardiovascular system article is a stub.