Sylvian aqueduct

Sylvian Aqueduct

The Sylvian Aqueduct, also known as the Aqueduct of Sylvius, is a small canal located within the brain. It is named after the French anatomist Franciscus Sylvius, who first described it in the 17th century. The Sylvian Aqueduct plays a crucial role in the circulatory system of the brain, as it allows the passage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the third to the fourth ventricle.

Anatomy

The Sylvian Aqueduct is a narrow, tube-like structure approximately 15 to 20 millimeters in length. It is located in the midbrain, specifically in the tegmentum, a part of the brainstem. The aqueduct is surrounded by the periaqueductal gray, a region involved in pain modulation and defensive behavior.

Function

The primary function of the Sylvian Aqueduct is to allow the flow of CSF from the third ventricle, located in the diencephalon, to the fourth ventricle, located between the pons and the cerebellum. This flow is essential for the maintenance of the CSF circulation within the brain, which provides cushioning for the brain, delivers nutrients, and removes waste products.

Clinical significance

Blockage of the Sylvian Aqueduct can lead to a condition known as hydrocephalus, which is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of CSF in the brain. This can cause increased intracranial pressure, leading to symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, can lead to brain damage or death. Treatment typically involves the surgical insertion of a shunt to drain the excess fluid.

See also

• Cerebrospinal fluid
• Hydrocephalus
• Ventricular system