Microsurgical Anatomy of Cerebral Insula and Its Clinical Significance

Objective To provide the microanatomy for surgical operation in the region of the insula. Method The microdissection and relative data measurement were performed in the insula region of 12 adult cadaveric heads (24 cerebral hemispheres). Results The insula had triangle shape because of the pyramidal configuration and was surrounded by anterior, superior and inferior limiting sulci. The middle cerebral artery (MCA) provided the sole blood supply for the insula and the branches arising from the MCA formed a vascular net which covers the insular cortex. The insula was adjacent to the lateral ventricel, putamen and internal capsule. Conclusion The insula has special anatomic characteristics. It is important for a neurosurgeon to have a good understanding of the microsurgical anatomy of the insula. Knowing of the insular microanatomy is helpful to avoiding neurological complications after the surgery in the insula.