Fiber dissection of the visual pathways: analysis of the relationship of optic radiations to lateral ventricle: a cadaveric study.

OBJECTIVE Using a fiber-dissection technique, our aim is to study the fiber bundles of the optic radiation. We focused on the course, the length, anatomical relations with lateral ventricle and the relevance of these finding during surgery in the region. MATERIALS AND METHODS Five previously frozen and formalin-fixed cadaveric human brains were used. The dissection was done using the operating microscope. Fiber dissection techniques described by Klingler were adopted. The primary dissection tools were handmade, thin, and wooden and curved metallic spatulas with tips of various sizes. Lateral and inferior temporal approaches were made and the optic fiber tracts were dissected. RESULTS Resections that extend through the roof of the temporal horn more than 30 mm behind the temporal pole cross the Meyer's loop. In the middle temporal gyrus approach, resection that is taken through the lateral wall of the temporal horn more than 55-60 mm behind the temporal pole may cross the optic radiation during their course here on the lateral wall. CONCLUSION The presented fiber dissection study clarifies the relationship of optic radiation. Such fiber dissection studies are only few in the literature.