Anatomia Cirúrgica e Classificação das Veias Silvianas

Introduction: The understanding of the anatomy and variations of the sylvian veins to access the sylvian fissure for intracranial aneurysms is necessary to avoid complications such as venous thrombosis or brain contusion. The authorsdescribe an anatomical study of the sylvian veins. Material and Methods: From june 1994 to  december 2008, 110 patients were operated on through the pterional approach. Forty-five brain hemispheres were analized. Results: Fifteen cases had a frontobasal predominant bridging vein. Only one case developed venous thrombosis. Discussion: The opening of the arachnoid at the frontal side of the fissure is safer than compared to the temporal side. Conclusion: The anatomical understanding of the sylvian veins may provide a safer intracranial aneurysms surgery.