Falx Cerebri: A Detailed Overview

Introduction

Falx cerebri is a crescent-shaped invagination of the dura mater that separates the left and right cerebral hemispheres. It is one of two special folds of the dura in the brain, the other being the tentorium.

Structure and Anatomy

The falx cerebri is a large, sickle-shaped fold of the meningeal cranial dura mater. It projects down into the longitudinal fissure separating the two cerebral hemispheres. The falx cerebri is attached anteriorly to the crista galli of the ethmoid bone and posteriorly to the tentorium cerebelli.

The falx cerebri consists of two layers of dura mater. The outer layer is continuous with the periosteum of the skull, while the inner layer is continuous with the pia mater of the brain.

The falx cerebri is strengthened by a number of fibrous bands, including the superior sagittal sinus, the inferior sagittal sinus, and the straight sinus.

Function

The falx cerebri serves a number of important functions, including:

• Dividing the brain into left and right hemispheres
• Providing support for the brain
• Protecting the brain from injury
• Regulating blood flow to the brain

Clinical Significance

Falx cerebri can be involved in a number of pathological conditions, including:

• Falx cerebri herniation
• Falx cerebri cyst
• Falx cerebri lipoma

Falx cerebri herniation is a condition in which the falx cerebri is forced through the tentorium cerebelli, compressing the brainstem. It is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Falx cerebri cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms within the falx cerebri. It is usually asymptomatic, but it can cause headaches, seizures, and other neurological symptoms.

Falx cerebri lipoma is a benign tumor that consists of fat cells. It is usually asymptomatic, but it can cause headaches, seizures, and other neurological symptoms.