Anatomia microcirúrgica das artérias infratentoriais: Urn estudo estereoscópico

Abstract

Background: The infratentorial space is a region with a complex network of arteries supplying the cerebellum and brainstem. Its complex threedimensional anatomy must be thoroughly understood by the vascular neurosurgeon and the interventional radiologist. Objective: To describe the main arteries of the infratentorial space and its trajectory and its relationship to the topography of the neural structures. Methods: We studied 30 formalin-fixed human brains and we also dissected 6 cadaver heads, using a surgical microscope with 3X to 40X magnification. The brains and all heads were injected with colored silicone. The anatomical dissections were documented with a three-dimensional method, aiming to produce stereoscopic prints. Results: The neurovascular relationships, segments and branches of the basilar artery, superior cerebellar, anteroinferior cerebellar, cerebellar and posterainferior vertebral are described. Conclusion: The microsurgical anatomy of the infratentorial arteries is complex and the stereoscopic images presented are an important tool for documentation.