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Published on: September 8, 2021
The suprapineal recess of the third ventricle: an anatomic study with magnetic resonance imaging
Satoshi Tsutsumi1, Hideo Ono2, Yukimasa Yasumoto3
1Department of Neurological Surgery, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, 2-1-1 Tomioka, Urayasu, Chiba, 279-0021, Japan. shotaro@juntendo-urayasu.jp.
Purpose:
The suprapineal recess (SPR) is a small, backward extension of the third ventricle. Few radiological studies have investigated the morphology of the SPR. Here, we explore the SPR with magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.
Methods:
A total of 124 patients underwent thin-slice MR imaging examinations with T2-weighted imaging and the constructive interference steady-state (CISS) sequence. Imaging data were transferred to a workstation for analysis.
Results:
The pineal gland (P) was delineated in 99% of the patients on T2-weighted imaging and 100% of the patients on the CISS sequence. In contrast, the SPR was identified in 27% of the patients on T2-weighted imaging and 82% of the patients on the CISS sequence. The location of the P relative to the lowest point of the splenium was roughly classified into two types. Of them, the anterior P location was the more frequent type and observed in 73% of the patients. The angle formed by the roof and floor of the SPR showed remarkable interindividual diversity. A membranous posterior extension with variable length, spanning between the posterosuperior margin of the P and Galenic complex was found in 55% of the identified SPRs on T2-weighted imaging and 45% on the CISS sequence.
Conclusions:
The SPR is a distinct structure with diversity in appearance among individuals but commonly extends posterior to the P. High-resolution MR imaging is useful for delineating the SPR in vivo.
Insights
The suprapineal recess (SPR) is a distinct third ventricle extension. High-resolution MRI effectively visualizes the SPR, revealing diverse morphologies and common posterior extensions in patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroanatomy
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- The suprapineal recess (SPR) is a posterior extension of the third ventricle.
- Its detailed morphology is not well-characterized in radiological literature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphology of the suprapineal recess (SPR) using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.
- To assess the utility of different MR sequences in delineating the SPR.
Main Methods:
- 124 patients underwent thin-slice T2-weighted and CISS sequence MR imaging.
- MR imaging data were analyzed on a workstation.
Main Results:
- The pineal gland was visualized in nearly all patients.
- The SPR was identified in 82% of patients on CISS sequences, compared to 27% on T2-weighted imaging.
- Significant interindividual variation in SPR morphology, including a posterior membranous extension, was observed.
Conclusions:
- The SPR is a distinct anatomical structure with variable morphology.
- High-resolution MR imaging, particularly CISS sequences, is effective for in vivo delineation of the SPR.
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