Anatomical implications of posterior cephaloceles in the dural venous sinuses

Objective To analyze the venous anatomy of the dural sinuses of patients with posterior encephaloceles, in order to formulate anatomical patterns which can ensure safer surgery. Methods This is a retrospective study, analyzing eight patients diagnosed with posterior encephalocele throughout 1 year. Results Eight patients with cephaloceles were evaluated in our study from January 2017 to January 2018. The most common alteration was dysgenesis of the straight sinus ( n = 7), followed by venous anomalies in the encephalocele and alterations in the SSS (superior sagittal sinus) ( n = 4), and the occurrence of a falcine sinus (FC) in 3 patients. Conclusion Anatomical variations are frequent in patients with cephaloceles. Therefore, an understanding of them is necessary for safe and effective treatment.