The central sulcus, also called the fissure of Rolando, is a deep groove running down and forwards across the lateral surface of each hemisphere from near the top midline to just above the lateral sulcus. It separates the frontal lobe in front from the parietal lobe behind. The primary motor cortex lies in front of it and the primary somatosensory cortex behind it.
| Location | Lateral surface of the hemisphere, from the superior margin to just above the lateral sulcus, between the precentral and postcentral gyri |
|---|---|
| Connections | |
| Blood Supply | Middle cerebral artery (central sulcal or Rolandic artery) |
Marks the boundary between the motor cortex in front and the sensory cortex behind, a key landmark for brain mapping.
Finding the central sulcus is key before brain surgery, since injury to the cortex on either side causes weakness or sensory loss. On MRI it is identified by signs such as the 'hand knob' of the precentral gyrus. Benign childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (rolandic epilepsy) arises in the lower part of this region.
A common childhood epilepsy with facial twitching and drooling, usually during sleep, which is outgrown by adolescence.
A tumour near the central sulcus that threatens motor and sensory function and needs careful surgical mapping.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
