The anterior and posterior meningeal branches of the vertebral artery.

Abstract

The meningeal branches of the vertebral artery have received little attention in either the radiologic or the anatomic literature. These arteries, which usually are small, may become significantly enlarged in a variety of pathologic conditions. The normal anatomic and roentgen features of these meningeal branches will be reviewed in this communication, and the significance of their enlargement will be discussed. Anatomy Both anterior and posterior meningeal branches of the vertebral artery arise from its extracranial segment to supply a portion of the dura of the posterior fossa. The posterior branch has been described previously (3, 4, 7, 13). It arises from the vertebral artery above the level of the arch of the atlas just below the foramen magnum. This artery supplies the medial portions of the dura of the occipital posterior fossa as well as the falx cerebelli. In addition, it may extend above the tentorium to supply the posterior segment of the falx cerebri and adjacent tentorium. The course and dist...