The middle cerebral artery primarily supplies blood to which area of the brain?

The middle cerebral artery is primarily responsible for supplying blood to the brain's lateral surface. This area includes significant portions of the lateral frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes, which are crucial for various functions such as motor control, sensory perception, language, and higher cognitive processes. Its location and the territories it serves make it the most commonly affected artery in cases of stroke, leading to characteristic neurological deficits.

The frontal lobe, while it does receive some blood supply from the middle cerebral artery, is not its primary focus. The cerebellum and brainstem are primarily supplied by other arteries, specifically the vertebral and basilar arteries, which cater to these regions by providing the necessary blood flow for their functioning. Therefore, the recognition of the lateral surface as the territory of the middle cerebral artery highlights the artery's role in maintaining vascular health in a crucial area of the brain.