CT Brain Anatomy
Posterior fossa

Key points

  • The posterior fossa accommodates the cerebellum and brain stem

The posterior fossa accommodates the cerebellum and brain stem. Superiorly the cerebellum is separated from the cerebral hemispheres by the tentorium cerebelli.

Posterior fossa - axial CT image at level of pons

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Posterior fossa

  • The brain stem and cerebellum occupy the posterior fossa

Posterior fossa - sagittal plane image

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Posterior fossa

  • Imaging software allows visualisation of the structures of the brain in different planes
  • The sagittal plane can be useful to show the anatomy of the brain stem
  • Note: MRI may be required if there is specific concern regarding brainstem pathology

Page author: Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust UK (Read bio)

Last reviewed: July 2019