Arachnoid and dural reflections

Document Type

Article

Abstract

The dura mater is the major gateway for accessing most extra-axial lesions and all intra-axial lesions of the central nervous system. It provides a protective barrier against external trauma, infections, and the spread of malignant cells. Knowledge of the anatomical details of dural reflections around various corners of the skull bases provides the neurosurgeon with confidence during transdural approaches. Such knowledge is indispensable for protection of neurovascular structures in the vicinity of these dural reflections. The same concept is applicable to arachnoid folds and reflections during intradural excursions to expose intra- and extra-axial lesions of the brain. Without a detailed understanding of arachnoid membranes and cisterns, the neurosurgeon cannot confidently navigate the deep corridors of the skull base while safely protecting neurovascular structures. This chapter covers the surgical anatomy of dural and arachnoid reflections applicable to microneurosurgical approaches to various regions of the skull base.

Medical Subject Headings

Arachnoid (anatomy & histology, blood supply); Cadaver; Dura Mater (blood supply); Humans; Meninges (blood supply); Skull Base (anatomy & histology, blood supply)

Publication Date

1-1-2020

Publication Title

Handbook of clinical neurology

ISSN

0072-9752

Volume

169

First Page

17

Last Page

54

PubMed ID

32553288

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1016/B978-0-12-804280-9.00002-0

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