Diploic vein

Diploic Veins

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Illustration of the Diploic Veins

The Diploic Veins are a network of veins located within the diploe, the spongy layer of bone found between the inner and outer layers of the skull. These veins play a crucial role in draining blood from the scalp to the dural venous sinuses.

Anatomy

The diploic veins are large, valveless veins that traverse the diploe. They begin near the periosteum, the outermost layer of the skull, and end at the inner table of the skull, where they drain into the dural venous sinuses. There are four main diploic veins: the frontal, anterior temporal, posterior temporal, and occipital.

Frontal Diploic Vein

The Frontal Diploic Vein begins at the supraorbital vein and drains into the superior sagittal sinus.

Anterior Temporal Diploic Vein

The Anterior Temporal Diploic Vein begins at the superficial temporal vein and drains into the sphenoparietal sinus.

Posterior Temporal Diploic Vein

The Posterior Temporal Diploic Vein begins at the superficial temporal vein and drains into the transverse sinus.

Occipital Diploic Vein

The Occipital Diploic Vein begins at the occipital vein and drains into the transverse sinus or the sigmoid sinus.

Clinical Significance

Due to their location, diploic veins can be involved in several pathological conditions, including skull fractures, intracranial hemorrhage, and infections. Understanding the anatomy of these veins is crucial for the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.

See Also

• Emissary vein
• Dural venous sinuses
• Skull