Occipital sinus


The occipital sinus is the smallest of the dural [venous sinuses]. It is usually unpaired, and is sometimes altogether absent. It is situated in the attached margin of the falx cerebelli. It commences near the foramen magnum, and ends by draining into the confluence of sinuses.
Occipital sinuses were discovered by Guichard Joseph Duverney.

Anatomy

The occipital sinus is present in around 65% of individuals. It is usually single, but occasionally paired.
It is situated in the attached margin of the falx cerebelli.

Course

The occipital sinus commences around the margin of the foramen magnum by several small venous channels. It terminates by draining into the confluence of the sinuses.

Communications

The occipital sinus communicates with the marginal sinus, and internal [vertebral venous plexuses|posterior internal vertebral venous plexuses].

Additional images