The lateral sulcus, or Sylvian fissure, is the deep cleft that separates the temporal lobe below from the frontal and parietal lobes above. It begins on the underside of the brain and runs backwards on the lateral surface, giving off short anterior and ascending branches. The insula lies hidden in its depths, and the middle cerebral artery runs within it.
| Location | Lateral surface of the hemisphere, between the temporal lobe below and the frontal and parietal lobes above |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Connections |
|
| Blood Supply | Middle cerebral artery (runs within the sulcus) |
Divides the temporal lobe from the lobes above, containing the insula and the main trunk of the middle cerebral artery.
The lateral sulcus is a main surgical corridor to the insula, middle cerebral artery aneurysms and deep tumours. Blood in the Sylvian fissure on CT suggests subarachnoid haemorrhage, often from a middle cerebral artery aneurysm. Arachnoid cysts commonly form in the middle cranial fossa at its front.
A bulge at the MCA bifurcation within the lateral sulcus that can rupture and cause subarachnoid haemorrhage.
A fluid-filled cyst in the front of the lateral sulcus, often found incidentally.
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