[Paraclinoid region: descriptive anatomy and radiological correlations with MR imaging]

Area of Science:

• Neuroanatomy
• Radiology
• Surgical Anatomy

Background:

• The paraclinoid region presents complex anatomical challenges.
• Accurate anatomical understanding is crucial for surgical interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the anatomical landmarks of the paraclinoid region.
• To correlate these landmarks with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings.
• To establish a reliable MRI protocol for visualizing the paraclinoid region.

Main Methods:

• Dissection and MRI analysis of 20 paraclinoid regions from anatomical specimens.
• Development and application of a high-resolution T2-weighted MRI protocol (coronal and sagittal oblique planes).
• Evaluation of protocol reproducibility in 30 paraclinoid regions from 15 living subjects.

Main Results:

• Detailed anatomical description of paraclinoid structures, including dural folds, osseous surfaces, arteries, and nerves.
• Successful identification of key anatomical landmarks using the dedicated MRI protocol.
• High reproducibility of the MRI protocol in living subjects with no statistical difference from cadaveric measurements.

Conclusions:

• The study provides precise anatomical descriptions and radiological correlations for the paraclinoid region.
• The developed MRI protocol enables accurate localization of paraclinoid lesions.
• This imaging approach is vital for managing paraclinoid carotid artery aneurysms.