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The insula: anatomic study and MR imaging display at 1.5 T
Thomas P Naidich1, Eugene Kang, Girish M Fatterpekar
1Department of Radiology, Section of Neuropathology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY 10029, USA.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|February 19, 2004
Summary
This study found that the insula has predictable anatomical patterns visible on MRI scans. These reproducible insular structures can be identified by physicians using standard 1.5-T magnetic resonance imaging.
Area of Science:
- Neuroanatomy
- Radiology
- Human Anatomy
Background:
- The insula plays a crucial role in gustatory sensation, speech control, vestibular function, and cardiovascular regulation.
- Understanding insular anatomy is vital for interpreting neurological imaging and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if gross insular anatomy exhibits reproducible structural patterns.
- To assess if magnetic resonance (MR) imaging can reveal these patterns for clinical recognition.
Main Methods:
- Gross anatomical analysis of 16 human cadaveric hemispheres.
- Analysis of 300 magnetic resonance (MR) images at 1.5-T to map insular gyri and sulci.
- Correlation of insular structures with landmarks like the Heschl gyrus and vertical planes (VAC, VPC).
Main Results:
- High detection rates for the central insular sulcus (97%) and anterior/posterior short gyri (99%/98%).
- The apex was consistently identified (100%), with the anterior long gyrus also frequently seen (99%).
- Anterior insular borders were often defined by internal/external capsule intersections (87%), and the Heschl gyrus bordered the posteroinferior insula (100%).
Conclusions:
- The study confirmed that insular anatomy possesses reproducible patterns.
- These anatomical patterns are reliably visualized on routine 1.5-T MR imaging, aiding clinical diagnosis.