Sinus intercavernosus

Last edited and medically reviewed by Alaric Steinmetz on 15.08.2023

Synonyms

Intercavernous sinus

The sinus intercavernosus, described in the literature as the intercavernous sinus, is a venous connection between the paired Cavernous sinus.

Anatomy

The sinus intercavernosus consists of various components and is further subdivided according to its location relative to the Pituitary gland[^3].

Anterior sinus intercavernosus

The anterior sinus intercavernosus courses anterior to the pituitary gland. In a case study of 32 cadaveric dissections, the anterior sinus intercavernosus was consistently present, with a diameter of 0.57 to 5.43 mm[^2].

Posterior sinus intercavernosus

The posterior sinus intercavernosus courses posterior to the pituitary gland. In the same case study, the posterior sinus intercavernosus was also present in 100 % of cases[^2], with a diameter ranging from 0.71 to 4.14 mm[^2].

Inferior sinus intercavernosus

A sinus intercavernosus directed inferiorly toward the sellar floor is referred to as the inferior sinus intercavernosus[^3].

Figure

Rhoton sellar region — Anatomical illustration of the sellar region showing the anterior and inferior cavernous sinus. Illustration adapted from Albert Rhoton 2002 Neurosurgery.

Illustration of the intercavernous sinus — Illustration of the anterior and posterior intercavernous sinuses. Adapted from Aquini et al. 1994.

Clinical relevance

Injuries to the sinus intercavernosus may occur, for example, during a transsphenoidal approach and may result in severe intraoperative venous bleeding[^1].