Microanatomical study of the upper neurovascular complex in the cerebellopontine angle(CPA) region

Objective To investigate the microanatomical structures of the upper neurovascular complex. Methods 15 adult cadaveric heads fixed in 10% formalin were used for this study. The heads were placed in a head holder in a position simulating the trans-suboccipital retrosigmoid approach to the CPA region. Dissections were performed under x4 to 25 magnification. Results To investigate the relationships of the cerebellar arteries with the cranial nerves, brainstem, cerebellar peduncles, fissures between cerebellum and brainstem. When examining these relationships, the upper neurovascular complex are defined as: an upper complex related to superior cerebellar artery , trigeminal nerve, and midbrain cerebelomesencephalic fissure, As a result, about 46.88% of SCA has a point of contact with the trigeminal nerve. Conclusions The upper neurovascular complex in the cerebellopontine angle, which is adjacent to the brainstem, arteries of cerebellum and cranial nerves, is deep-seated and intricate in structure. Thorough anatomical study can help to improve the success in MVD surgery, as well as satisfactory functional survival of the patient.