The sphenopetroclival venous gulf: a microanatomical study

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Skull Base Anatomy
• Vascular Anatomy

Background:

• The sphenopetroclival region is a challenging area for neurosurgeons due to complex and sometimes contradictory anatomical descriptions.
• Microsurgical anatomy of the skull base requires precise understanding for safe and effective surgical approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a novel microanatomical analysis of the sphenopetroclival region.
• To clarify the complex venous anatomy and provide a consistent description for surgical guidance.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 20 human cadaveric heads with laboratory reproduction of skull base approaches.
• Measurements taken on 40 specimens to define the anatomical space.
• Identification and naming of the "sphenopetroclival venous gulf" (SPCVG).

Main Results:

• The sphenopetroclival area is characterized as a distinct venous space, termed the SPCVG.
• The SPCVG receives blood from the cavernous sinus, basilar plexus, and superior petrosal sinus, and is drained by the inferior petrosal sinus.
• Key structures within the SPCVG include Dorello canal, the abducent nerve's venous segment, and a falciform ligament formed by interconnected petrosal ligaments.

Conclusions:

• The posterior structures of the SPCVG offer a potential surgical corridor for approaching the lateral sellar compartment (LSC) via the posterior fossa.
• This study provides a unified conceptualization of the sphenopetroclival region's microanatomy.