Sulcal and gyral anatomy of the basal occipital–temporal lobe

Purpose: The sulcal and gyral anatomy of the basal occipital–temporal lobe is highly variable and detailed descriptions of this region are limited and often inconsistent. The aim of this study was to describe the salient features of the sulcal and gyral anatomy of the basal occipital–temporal lobe. Methods: We studied the sulcal and gyral patterns of 30 formalin-fixed cerebral hemispheres. Results: The major landmarks are the collateral sulcus (separated into the rhinal, proper, and caudal segments) and occipitotemporal sulcus (often interrupted), which were always present in this study. The bifurcation of the caudal collateral sulcus is a useful landmark. In relation to these sulci, we have described the surface anatomy and nominated landmarks of the medial (parahippocampal and lingual) and lateral (fusiform) occipitotemporal gyri. Conclusions: Understanding of the sulcal and gyral patterns of the basal occipital–temporal lobe may provide valuable information in its radiological and intraoperative interpretation.