The superficial middle cerebral vein (Sylvian vein) is part of the superficial venous system located within the cranial cavity.
It contributes to the venous drainage of the lateral surface of the cerebrum.
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Course
The superficial middle cerebral vein lies on the superolateral surface of the cerebral hemisphere.
It travels along the lateral sulcus (groove) in an anterior and inferior trajectory. It receives small tributaries along its route.
At the tip of the temporal lobe, the superficial middle cerebral vein curves anteriorly to empty into the sphenoparietal sinus or directly into the cavernous sinus.
The superficial middle cerebral vein may also empty into other dural venous sinuses:
- Superior sagittal sinus – via the superior anastomotic vein (superior anastomotic vein of Trolard).
- Transverse sinus – via the inferior anastomotic vein of Labbé.
Fig 1- The superficial middle cerebral vein drains the lateral aspect of the cerebrum.
Supply
The superficial middle cerebral vein drains deoxygenated blood from the lateral aspect of the cerebrum (primarily the temporal lobe).
