Cisterns are openings in the subarachnoid space of the brain created by a separation of the arachnoid and Pia mater. Continuos with 4th ventricle through median aperture of Magendie. Its lateral part contains the vertebral artery and its posterior inferior cerebellar branch.

How many cisterns are there in the brain?

1 = Olfactory cistern; 2 = Callosal cistern; 3 = Chiasmatic cistern with I and II nerves; 4 = Carotid cistern; 5 = Sylvian cistern; 6 = Crural cistern; 7 = Interpeduncular cisterns with III nerves; 8 = Ambient cisterns with IV nerves; 9 = Prepontine cistern with VI nerves; 10 = Cerebellopontine cistern on each side ...

What is the function of cisterns in the brain?

It provides the brain with nutrients, allows for solute exchange, and provides basic mechanical and functional support to the organ. There are areas where the CSF will accumulate due to spaces between the two innermost brain layers (meninges). These areas are known as the subarachnoid cisterns.