Posterior Meningeal Branch of the Vertebral Artery viewed from Above

Description

Arising from the intracranial segment of the vertebral artery at the margin of the foramen magnum, the posterior meningeal branch courses superiorly and posteriorly to supply the dura mater of the posterior cranial fossa. From a superior (viewed from above) perspective into the cranial cavity, the vertebral arteries are seen ascending along the ventrolateral medulla before contributing to the basilar artery, while the posterior meningeal vessel turns away from the main trunk toward the occipital squama and adjacent dural reflections. Portions of the arterial circle of Willis are visible more anteriorly and medially, providing orientation at the skull base relative to the posterior circulation. Attention to this small but consistent branch matters when teaching or planning approaches around the craniovertebral junction. Dural supply in the posterior fossa intersects surgical corridors used in suboccipital craniotomy and foramen magnum decompression, where bleeding from meningeal branches can obscure the operative field and complicate dural opening. It also provides a concrete anatomic anchor for understanding posterior fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas and their feeders from vertebral and meningeal sources. A small vessel. A frequent surprise. Designed for neuroanatomy and head and neck anatomy courses, this plate also suits neurosurgical atlases, endovascular teaching files, and publisher-facing figures on posterior circulation and meningeal vascularization, where a superior viewpoint helps readers relate vessels to the foramen magnum and posterior cranial fossa dura. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.