What are the ventricles of the brain?

The ventricles are four interconnected cavities in the brain filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). They include two lateral ventricles (one in each cerebral hemisphere), the third ventricle (in the diencephalon), and the fourth ventricle (within the hindbrain).

How is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) produced and circulated?

CSF is produced by choroid plexuses in the ventricles. It circulates from the lateral ventricles to the third ventricle via the interventricular foramina, then through the cerebral aqueduct to the fourth ventricle, and finally exits into the subarachnoid space.

What are the main functions of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

CSF cushions and supports the brain and spinal cord, maintains intracranial pressure, removes waste products, and provides buoyancy to reduce the brain's effective weight.

How do the ventricles connect to each other?

The lateral ventricles connect to the third ventricle via the interventricular foramina (of Monro). The third ventricle connects to the fourth ventricle through the cerebral aqueduct. The fourth ventricle is continuous with the central canal of the spinal cord.

Where is the fourth ventricle located and what is its role?

The fourth ventricle lies between the cerebellum posteriorly and the pons and medulla anteriorly. It serves as a conduit for CSF flow from the third ventricle to the subarachnoid space and central canal of the spinal cord.

What is the terminal ventricle?

The terminal ventricle is a small dilation at the lower end of the central canal in the spinal cord, part of the ventricular system's extension into the spinal cord.

Brain Ventricles – CSF Production & Circulation