Cavernous Sinus

Question 1

Definition, shape, and site

Answer 1

Short wide sinus consisting of many intercommunicating channels 2x2 lying on each side of body of sphenoid

Question 2

Relations: anterior (2)

Answer 2

1. Apex of orbit
2. Superior orbital fissure

Question 3

Relations: posterior (2)

Answer 3

1. Apex of petrous bone
2. Trigeminal ganglion

Question 4

Relations: medial (3)

Answer 4

1. Body sphenoid
2. Sphenoid sinus
3. Pituitary gland

Question 5

Relations: lateral (1)

Answer 5

Uncus of temporal lobe

Question 6

Relations: above (1)

Answer 6

ICA

Question 7

Contents: inside sinus (2)

Answer 7

1. ICA
2. Abducent nerve: 6th cranial nerve

Question 8

Contents: embedded in lateral wall (4)

Answer 8

1. Oculomotor nerve: 3rd cranial nerve
2. Trochlear nerve: 4th cranial nerve
3. Ophthalmic nerve: division of Trigeminal nerve 5th cranial nerve
4. Maxillary nerve: division of Trigeminal nerve 5th cranial nerve

Question 9

Tributaries: anterior (2)

Answer 9

1. Ophthalmic veins: connect with anterior facial vein
2. Sphenoparietal sinus

Question 10

Tributaries posteriorly (2)

Answer 10

1. Superior petrosal sinus: connects with transverse sinus
2. Inferior petrosal sinus:
   Connects with IJV

Question 11

Tributaries: above (1)

Answer 11

Superficial middle cerebral vein

Question 12

Tributaries: below (3)

Answer 12

1. Emissary vein through foramen ovale: connect with pterygoid venous plexus
2. Emissary vein through foramen lacerum: connect with pterygoid
3. Emissary vein through carotid canal: connect with pharyngeal venous plexus or with IJV

Question 13

Tributaries: medially (1)

Answer 13

2 intercavernous sinuses: connect both cavernous sinuses

Question 14

Tributaries: others (2)

Answer 14

1. Pituitary gland veins
2. Central retinal vein

Question 15

Applied anatomy: cavernous sinus thrombosis

Answer 15

Transmission of infection from dangerous from dangerous area of face to cavernous sinus.
Characterized by:
1. Fever
2. Internal squint (abducent nerve paralysis)
3. Eye becomes congested (black)
4. Oedematous (venous drainage obstruction)
5. Later on eye bulges to outside (proptosis)