The cerebral aqueduct, or aqueduct of Sylvius, is a narrow channel about 15 mm long running through the midbrain from the third ventricle to the fourth ventricle. It is the narrowest part of the ventricular system, which makes it the most common site of blockage causing hydrocephalus.
| Location | Midbrain, between the tectum behind and the tegmentum in front, surrounded by the periaqueductal grey |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Connections |
|
| Blood Supply | Midbrain perforating branches of the posterior cerebral and superior cerebellar arteries (surrounding tissue) |
Carries cerebrospinal fluid from the third ventricle to the fourth ventricle.
Aqueductal stenosis, congenital or acquired from tumours, haemorrhage or infection, enlarges the lateral and third ventricles while the fourth ventricle stays normal. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy bypasses the blocked aqueduct. Phase-contrast MRI measures CSF flow through the aqueduct.
Narrowing or blockage of the aqueduct causing hydrocephalus of the lateral and third ventricles, presenting as a large head in infants or headache in adults.
Compression of the aqueduct by a tectal glioma or pineal tumour, causing obstructive hydrocephalus.
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.
