The intercavernous sinuses are dural venous channels that link the right and left cavernous sinuses across the midline. The anterior and posterior intercavernous sinuses pass in front of and behind the pituitary stalk, so together with the cavernous sinuses they form a ring around the pituitary gland, sometimes called the circular sinus. Smaller channels may also run beneath the gland.
| Origin | Medial walls of the cavernous sinuses |
|---|---|
| Course | Run across the midline in the margins of the diaphragma sellae, in front of and behind the pituitary stalk, connecting the two cavernous sinuses |
| Branches |
|
The anterior intercavernous sinus is met when the dura over the sella is opened during transsphenoidal pituitary surgery and can bleed heavily, especially in patients where it is large. These connections also explain how infection or thrombosis in one cavernous sinus can spread to the other side, producing signs in both eyes. Surgeons review imaging before operating to anticipate a large sinus.
Opening the sellar dura can enter an enlarged anterior intercavernous sinus, causing brisk venous bleeding that is controlled with haemostatic agents or gentle packing.
Thrombosis or infection spreading through the intercavernous sinuses can involve both cavernous sinuses, causing swelling and cranial nerve palsies on both sides.
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