Liliequist membrane

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The Liliequist membrane is a membrane of the Arachnoid mater and represents an important intraoperative anatomical landmark in certain neurosurgical procedures.

Anatomy

Anatomically, the Liliequist membrane consists of two layers that arise together from the Dorsum sellae and then divide into a diencephalic part and a mesencephalic part. In 75 % of cases, the diencephalic layer inserts at the anterior margin of the Mammillary bodies[^1]. The mesencephalic part of the Liliequist membrane inserts directly anterior to the apex of the Basilar artery[^1] [^2].

Figure

Liliequist membrane schematic
Schematic illustration of the Liliequist membrane showing its various components. Adapted from Fushimi et al.

Imaging

The Liliequist membrane can often be visualized on MRI imaging.

Liliequist membrane MRI
MRI CISS sequences of the Liliequist membrane. Figure adapted from Fushimi et al.

Clinical relevance

During an endoscopic Endoscopic third ventriculostomy, if a Liliequist membrane is present, it should also be opened to achieve an optimal stoma[^3].

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Edit · Alaric Steinmetz · (+14 −14)
  • Text changed: “Anatomically, the Liliequist membrane consists of two leaves, which together originate from the Dorsum sellae and then divide into a diencephalic and a mesencephalic component. In 75 % of cases, the diencephalic layer inserts at the anterior margin of the Mammillary bodies [^1]. The mesencephalic component of the Liliequist membrane inserts directly anterior to the apex of the Basilar artery [^1] [^2].”“Anatomically, the Liliequist membrane consists of two layers that arise together from the Dorsum sellae and then divide into a diencephalic part and a mesencephalic part. In 75 % of cases, the diencephalic layer inserts at the anterior margin of the Mammillary bodies [^1]. The mesencephalic part of the Liliequist membrane inserts directly anterior to the apex of the Basilar artery [^1] [^2].”
  • Text changed: “\n\nImaging”“Imaging”
  • Text changed: “\n\nClinical relevance”“Clinical relevance”
  • Text changed: “During endoscopic Third ventriculostomy , if a Liliequist membrane is present, it should also be opened to achieve an optimal stoma[^3].”“During an endoscopic Endoscopic third ventriculostomy , if a Liliequist membrane is present, it should also be opened to achieve an optimal stoma[^3].”
  • Citation added: “Volovici V, Varvari I, Dirven CMF, Dammers R. The membrane of Liliequist—a safe haven in the middle of the brain. A narrative review. Acta Neurochir. March 2020.”
  • Citation added: “Fushimi Y, Miki Y, Ueba T, et al. Liliequist Membrane: Three-dimensional Constructive Interference in Steady State MR Imaging. Radiology. November 2003:360-365.”
  • Citation added: “Mohanty, Aaron, et al. "Efficacy of endoscopic third ventriculostomy in fourth ventricular outlet obstruction." Neurosurgery 63.5 (2008): 905-914.”

Article created on · Alaric Steinmetz

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