Anatomical study of the confluence of the sinuses with contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance venography.
BACKGROUND
It is important that each dural sinus can be recognized during brain surgery and that the venous route can be used for interventional procedures. In this study, the anatomical features and patterns of the confluence of the sinuses were analyzed.


METHODS
The technique of contrast-enhanced three-dimensional magnetic resonance venography was used in 549 patients.


RESULTS
There were many anatomical variations in the confluence of the sinuses. Most cases had wide communication between the right and left transverse sinuses.


CONCLUSIONS
Careful examination of the confluence of the sinuses is essential for the preoperative evaluation of posterior cranial fossa lesions and interventional procedures using the venous route.
Kobayashi
Keiko
K
Department of Radiology, Kanazawa University School of Medicine, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan. garyou@dream.com
Matsui
Osamu
O
Suzuki
Masayuki
M
Ueda
Fumiaki
F
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002550:Cerebral Veins / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage; D003392:Cranial Sinuses / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D005260:Female; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D018810:Magnetic Resonance Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
D003287:Contrast Media; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA