Which structures do the branches of the vertebrobasilar system supply?

The branches of the vertebrobasilar system primarily supply the spinal cord and hindbrain. The vertebrobasilar system is formed by the vertebral arteries, which merge to create the basilar artery. This system is crucial for supplying blood to critical areas within the brainstem, including the medulla, pons, and midbrain, as well as parts of the cerebellum.

The spinal cord receives contributions from the posterior inferior cerebellar artery and the anterior spinal artery, which are branches that arise from the vertebrobasilar system. The hindbrain, consisting of the brainstem and cerebellum, relies heavily on blood flow from the branches of the vertebrobasilar system, ensuring proper neurological function in these regions.

Other options, while they reference structures in the central nervous system, do not accurately describe the primary vascular territories supplied by the vertebrobasilar system. The thalamus and hypothalamus receive blood from the circle of Willis and other anterior circulation, the cortex and deep nuclei are predominantly supplied by the internal carotid arteries, and although the cerebellum is involved, the occipital lobe is mainly supplied through the posterior cerebral artery stemming from the internal carotid system.