A possible venous connection between the cranial and nasal cavity

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Radiology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• The foramen cecum (FC) and crista galli (CG) venous structures are inconsistently described.
• Understanding these venous pathways is crucial for surgical and diagnostic procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the venous structures within the foramen cecum (FC) and crista galli (CG) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• To clarify the anatomical variations and connections of these venous channels.

Main Methods:

• 101 patients undergoing contrast-enhanced examinations were analyzed.
• Thin-sliced, seamless sagittal MRI sections were used for detailed analysis.
• Venous structures in the FC and CG regions were meticulously examined.

Main Results:

• 84% of patients showed tubular venous extensions in the FC, originating from the superior sagittal sinus or frontal cortical vein.
• These extensions were classified into four types based on morphology.
• A distinct venous channel connecting the FC to the nasal cavity was observed in 27.7% of patients, often piercing the CG.

Conclusions:

• The foramen cecum (FC) houses venous extensions supplied by the superior sagittal sinus or frontal cortical vein.
• A potential venous connection exists between the cranial cavity, FC, and nasal cavity.
• These findings enhance understanding of venous anatomy in the anterior cranial base.