Collateral sulcus

General Information
Latin	sulcus collateralis
Greek
TA98
TA2
FMA
Details
System	Central nervous system
Artery	Posterior cerebral artery
Vein	Basal vein
Nerve
Lymphatic drainage
Precursor
Function
Identifiers
Clinical significance
Notes

The collateral sulcus, also known as the collateral fissure, is a prominent anatomical feature of the human brain. It is located on the inferior surface of the temporal lobe and plays a significant role in the organization of the cerebral cortex.

Anatomy

The collateral sulcus is situated on the ventral aspect of the temporal lobe, running parallel to the parahippocampal gyrus and the fusiform gyrus. It is a deep groove that separates these two gyri. The sulcus extends from the anterior part of the temporal lobe, near the temporal pole, to the posterior part, where it approaches the occipital lobe.

Location

The collateral sulcus is located medial to the fusiform gyrus and lateral to the parahippocampal gyrus. It is one of the major sulci on the ventral surface of the brain and is often used as a landmark in neuroimaging studies to identify adjacent cortical regions.

Structure

The collateral sulcus is a deep and continuous groove that varies in depth and length among individuals. It is typically more pronounced in the posterior region of the temporal lobe. The sulcus is bordered by the fusiform gyrus laterally and the parahippocampal gyrus medially.

Function

While the collateral sulcus itself does not have a direct functional role, it serves as an important anatomical landmark for identifying adjacent cortical areas involved in various cognitive processes. The regions surrounding the collateral sulcus, such as the fusiform gyrus and parahippocampal gyrus, are implicated in functions related to visual processing, memory, and spatial navigation.

Clinical Significance

The collateral sulcus is of clinical importance due to its proximity to regions involved in epilepsy and other neurological disorders. Lesions or abnormalities in the areas surrounding the collateral sulcus can lead to deficits in visual recognition and memory.

Neuroimaging

In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other neuroimaging techniques, the collateral sulcus is used as a reference point to identify and study the temporal lobe structures. Its distinct location and depth make it a reliable landmark for assessing the anatomy of the medial temporal lobe.

Development

The collateral sulcus develops during the fetal period as part of the overall formation of the cerebral cortex. Its development is influenced by genetic and environmental factors, and variations in its structure can be observed among different individuals.

See also

• Fusiform gyrus
• Parahippocampal gyrus
• Temporal lobe
• Cerebral cortex

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