To examine clinically-relevant neuroimaging anatomical variants of veins in the region of the temporal bones. To apply this knowledge in a case-based approach pertaining to venous pulsatile tinnitus. To review common and uncommon differential diagnoses of pulsatile tinnitus of venous origin.

Pulsatile tinnitus is a perceived persistent sound synchronous with the heartbeat, which can be unpleasant for patients. There are many causes of pulsatile tinnitus, of which vascular etiologies are the most common. Although both arterial and venous etiologies have been implicated, venous anatomical variants resulting in pulsatile tinnitus are more prevalent. In this educational exhibit, we review the venous anatomical variants and abnormalities occurring in the region of the petrous and...

Table of Contents of Venous Pulsatile Tinnitus: 1.Cerebral Dural Venous Sinus Neuroanatomy (Fig. 1) 2.Common Venous Etiology – Systemic:Intracranial Hypertension 3.Common Venous Etiologies –Dural Venous Sinus Related: - High Riding Jugular Bulb -Dehiscent Jugular Bulb -Sigmoid Sinus Diverticulum -Transverse Sinus Stenosis 4.Uncommon Venous Etiologies -Enlarged Posterior Fossa Emissary Vein - Dural Sinus Thrombosis Common Venous Etiologies – Intracranial Hypertension Idiopathic Intracranial...

We review the clinically relevant venous anatomy and associated abnormalities in the setting of pulsatile tinnitus, delving into both common and uncommon etiologies. A sound understanding of venous anatomy, variants, and abnormalities in and around the petro-mastoid temporal bones is essential to diagnosing pulsatile tinnitus of venous origin.

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