Triangular fossa of the third cerebral ventricle - an original 3D model and morphometric study

Area of Science:

• Neuroanatomy
• Cerebral Ventricles
• Morphometrics

Background:

• The triangular recess (TR), an anterior extension of the diencephalic ventricle, has been a subject of anatomical debate regarding its consistent presence.
• Previous studies have lacked consensus on the definitive anatomical characteristics and visibility of the TR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the tangible structure of the triangular recess (TR).
• To establish an anatomical morphometric standard for the TR and identify deviations.
• To propose a novel 3D model for the TR, dividing it into superficial (vestibule) and deep (pars profunda) parts.

Main Methods:

• Dissection of 100 adult human brains fixed in formaldehyde.
• Qualitative re-evaluation of classical anatomical data.
• Quantitative analysis involving measurements and statistical evaluation of the TR's dimensions and communication areas.

Main Results:

• The existence of the triangular fossa was confirmed through dissection.
• An original 3D model was proposed, dividing the TR into vestibule and pars profunda.
• Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in the surface areas of the TR's communications (34.07 mm² ± 7.01 vs. 271.43 mm² ± 46.36, p=0.001).

Conclusions:

• The study successfully demonstrated the tangible structure of the triangular recess.
• A novel spatial division and morphometric standard for the TR were established.
• The findings provide a valuable reference for assessing hydrocephalus during third ventriculoscopy.