Tentorial notch

Tentorial Notch (also known as the incisura tentorii cerebelli) is a significant anatomical structure in the human brain. It is an opening in the tentorium cerebelli, a fold of dura mater, which separates the cerebellum from the inferior portion of the occipital lobes.

Anatomy

The Tentorial Notch is located anteriorly in the tentorium cerebelli, allowing for the passage of the brainstem. Specifically, it allows the midbrain to connect with the forebrain, while the cerebellum and occipital lobes remain posterior. This anatomical arrangement is crucial for the proper functioning of the brain, as it facilitates communication between different brain regions.

Clinical Significance

Due to its location and the vital structures it houses, the Tentorial Notch is often involved in various medical conditions. For instance, in brain herniation, increased intracranial pressure can cause the brain tissue to move across structures within the skull, including the Tentorial Notch. This is known as transtentorial herniation, which can lead to life-threatening conditions such as brainstem compression.

See Also

• Tentorium cerebelli
• Brain herniation
• Brainstem