Superior Anastomotic Vein of Trolard in a Male Specimen, Lateral View

Description

Viewed from the lateral aspect of the male cerebral hemisphere, the superior anastomotic vein (vein of Trolard) courses superficially across the convexity, running superiorly toward the midline dura to join the superior sagittal sinus. Cortical venules and superficial cerebral veins converge into this channel along the gyral crowns and within adjacent sulci, with the vein crossing over frontoparietal cortex in the region of the central sulcus. Superiorly, the vessel approaches the parasagittal margin where bridging veins traverse the subdural space to enter the sinus. Arterial trunks in the sylvian region and accompanying cortical veins may be represented for orientation against the sulcal pattern. This lateral perspective matters because the vein of Trolard is one of the major superficial anastomoses between the superficial middle cerebral vein and the superior sagittal sinus, and its caliber and dominance vary widely between individuals. Neurosurgeons working through a frontotemporal or parietal craniotomy often plan dural opening and cortical entry corridors to preserve large superficial draining veins, since injury can precipitate venous infarction, hemorrhagic conversion, or postoperative brain swelling. It is also a practical landmark when correlating cortical venous drainage on catheter angiography, CT venography, or MR venography, where asymmetric prominence can mimic pathology or, conversely, mask dural sinus thrombosis when collateral pathways enlarge. A frequent teaching point. Venous anatomy drives surgical risk. Ideal for neuroanatomy and neurosurgical anatomy teaching, this illustration supports atlases, board review figures, and operative planning discussions that focus on superficial cortical venous variants and parasagittal approaches near the superior sagittal sinus. It also suits stroke and thrombosis education modules where collateral venous routes, including the superior anastomotic vein of Trolard, explain clinical-imaging mismatch. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.