Three-Dimensional Analysis of the Fundus of the Human Internal Acoustic Canal

Abstract

Three-dimensional reconstructions and cropping outlined the bone canals and demonstrated the highly variable VIIIth nerve anatomy at the fundus of the human inner acoustic canal. Myriad channel interconnections suggested an intricate system of neural interactive pathways in humans. Particularly striking was the variable anatomy of the saccule nerve channels. The results may assist in the preoperative interpretation of the VIIIth nerve anatomy.

Three‐dimensional imaging of the human internal acoustic canal and arachnoid cistern: a synchrotron study with clinical implications

“…Fibers ran from the SVN, reaching the SN and vice versa. Voit's nerve may, therefore, be derived from the SVN and reach the upper foramen of the SNC, as earlier described by Schart-Moren et al (2017b). The two saccular branches could be mistaken for a CN in MRI, and this finding may be clinically relevant in connection with CI.…”

“…Recently, we analyzed the fundus region of the human IAC using micro‐CT (Schart‐Moren et al. 2017b). Bone channels, but not the soft tissues, could be reproduced.…”

“…Micro‐CT showed that this nerve may enter an upper saccular nerve foramen (Schart‐Moren et al. 2017b). Synchrotron analyses verified this anastomosis between the SVN and IVN at the TC.…”

“…Arnesen (1984) & Bergstrom (1973 also described a nerve that coursed over the TC to reach the saccule macula. Micro-CT showed that this nerve may enter an upper saccular nerve foramen (Schart-Moren et al 2017b). Synchrotron analyses verified this anastomosis between the SVN and IVN at the TC.…”

“…However, vessels could be identified nearer the fundus region. A bone channel was described in the lateral part of the TC (Kozerska & Skrzat, 2015;Schart-Moren et al 2017b). It was thought to transmit blood vessels to the vestibule (V) or nerve branch and to the otolith organs.…”