Makindo Medical Notes.com

The cavernous sinus is a large, paired venous sinus located on either side of the pituitary gland within the middle cranial fossa. It is essential for venous drainage from the brain, orbit, and facial structures.

Anatomy

• Location: Situated bilaterally on the lateral sides of the sella turcica, extending from the superior orbital fissure to the petrous apex of the temporal bone.
• Structure: A trabeculated (networked) venous space with connections to various venous structures.
• Connections:
  • Receives blood from the superior and inferior ophthalmic veins, superficial middle cerebral vein, and sphenoparietal sinus.
  • Drains into the superior and inferior petrosal sinuses, which then drain into the internal jugular vein.

Contents

• Internal Structures: Internal carotid artery (surrounded by the carotid plexus) and cranial nerves (CN III, IV, V1, V2, and VI).
• Relation to Other Structures: Adjacent to the pituitary gland, optic chiasm, and temporal lobe.

Clinical Significance

• Infections: Infections from the face, particularly the danger triangle, can spread to the cavernous sinus, leading to cavernous sinus thrombosis.
• Symptoms of Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis: Headache, periorbital swelling, ophthalmoplegia, and reduced vision. This condition is a medical emergency.
• Tumours: Tumours such as pituitary adenomas or meningiomas can invade the cavernous sinus, affecting the cranial nerves and leading to neurological deficits.