Introduction: The fornix is main efferent tract from the hippocampus and is an important component of memory pathways. There are very few studies describing anatomical variations of fornix.
Methods: Fornicial anatomy was studied in 10 cadavers of normal adult healthy males who died in road accidents.
Results: In 5 out of the 10 brains, the crura and the body of fornix were broad and flat, like a sheet bilaterally rather than usual compact bundle. Tha maximum width was approximately 16mm on the right side (Mean width: 11.7 mm) and 11mm on the left side ( Mean width: 8.5mm).
Conclusions: To best of our knowledge this anatomical variant has not been described before. The knowledge of this variation will be useful during subforniceal or interforniceal approach for posterior third ventricle tumours, especially in latter, as unexpected lateral span of the fornix in the surgical corridor can lead to inadvertent damage to the fornix leading to memory defects.
Patient Care: A knowledge of this variation of fornicial anatomy would help the nerurosurgeon to be aware of the hazards associated with surgical approaches to the third ventricle.
Learning Objectives: By the conclusion of this session, the participants should be able to appreciate the importance of fornicial anatomy during inter fornicial or sub fornicial approach to third ventricular tumours.