The flocculus in computed tomography.
The flocculus may simulate a cerebellopontine angle mass in computed tomography (CT). The CT appearance of the flocculus was compared with acoustic neuroma. Normal internal auditory canals, symmetric cerebellopontine angle cisterns, modest contrast enhancement, and a location posterior to the porus acousticus distinguish the flocculus from an acoustic neuroma.
CT in the evaluation of the vestibulocochlear nerves and their central pathways. Evaluation of neurotologic disorders.
CT has evolved to become an important technique for the diagnosis of neurotologic disorders. By obtaining thin sections, the central pathway of the vestibulocochlear nerve can be rather properly evaluated with satisfactory clinical correlation when pathology exists. The validity of central vestibular and audiometric signs can be best substantiated with CT. The functional neuroanatomy of the vestibulocochlear and vestibulo-oculomotor systems is discussed. Results of the assessment of endocranial lesions involving the vestibulocochlear system are presented.
Anterior inferior cerebellar artery originating from the cavernous portion of the internal carotid artery.
An anomalous branch of the cavernous carotid artery, not reported previously, is described. Its appearance and distribution were unlike those of any known cavernous branch, originating at the level where the trigeminal artery is usually found but having no communication with the basilar artery. Its distribution approximated that of the anterior inferior cerebellar artery. The author believes that this is an unusual form of persistent embryonic communication between the carotid artery and the vessels of the posterior fossa.