Vessel
Straight sinus
Deep cerebral venous drainage along the falx–tentorium junction
High-yield
The usual formation is inferior sagittal sinus plus great cerebral vein. Posterior drainage often favors the left transverse pathway, but that pattern is not universal.
Overview
The straight sinus begins where the great cerebral vein meets the inferior sagittal sinus. It follows the junction of falx cerebri and tentorium toward posterior dural outflow channels. Much deep cerebral blood returns through this route, although its tributaries, partitions and connections provide considerable anatomical variation.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Usually the union of the inferior sagittal sinus and great cerebral vein at the anterior falx–tentorium junction.
- Course
- Runs posteriorly and downward within that dural junction toward the torcular region.
- Branches
- Great cerebral and inferior sagittal inflows, together with variable superior cerebellar and other nearby veins.
- Drains to
- Posterior confluence/transverse sinus pathways, often favoring the left; the channel configuration varies.
Clinical correlation
Obstruction of deep venous outflow can cause edema, hemorrhage or infarction in the thalami and other deep structures. Bilateral thalamic involvement is a useful clue, but asymmetric or unilateral abnormalities can also occur.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the straight sinus originate?
Usually the union of the inferior sagittal sinus and great cerebral vein at the anterior falx–tentorium junction.
Where does the straight sinus drain to?
Posterior confluence/transverse sinus pathways, often favoring the left; the channel configuration varies.
What are the tributaries of the straight sinus?
Tributaries of the straight sinus include the great cerebral and inferior sagittal inflows, together with variable superior cerebellar and other nearby veins.
What is the course of the straight sinus?
Runs posteriorly and downward within that dural junction toward the torcular region.