[Dissymmetry in the structure and dimensions of the temporal operculum of the cerebral hemispheres]

In 130 cerebral preparations of children and mature persons external structure and dimensions of the temporal operculum, pertaining to the posterior speech cerebral area, have been studied. A great variability in the operculum form, in the number of tertial sulci situating on it, in its linear dimensions and superficial area has been stated. Final dimensions of the temporal operculum are formed in early childhood and have no sex differences. During all age periods, there is a pronounced left-sided tendency in dimensional asymmetry of the temporal operculum dimensions; their predominance in the left side is noticed in more than 70%. No correlation between the operculum surface and the brain mass is revealed, as well as between its surface and the surface of transversal temporal gyri. The left-sided predominance in the length of the lateral sulcus is observed nearly as often as the left-sided prevalence of the temporal operculum, but in a number of cases their asymmetry has an opposite direction. This should be taken into consideration at diagnosing the dominant hemisphere by means of the intravital arteriography and when certain neurosurgical interventions are performed.