The anterior cavernous sinus space.

The anterior cavernous sinus space is the venous space anterior to the cavernous carotid artery. It is tetrahedral in shape with the anterior apex at the superior orbital fissure. The superomedial wall is formed by the base of the anterior clinoid process. The inferomedial wall is formed by the sphenoid bone. The lateral wall consists of two layers of dura with the oculomotor, trochlear, ophthalmic and abducens nerves in the inner layer. Medially, the posterior wall consists of the cavernous carotid artery. Laterally, it communicates with the lateral cavernous sinus space. Paraclinoid and carotid cave aneurysms may occupy this space and its microanatomy is important in the surgery of these aneurysms.