The cavernous sinus drains posteriorly into which venous structure?

• A Superior petrosal sinus only
• B Inferior petrosal sinus only
• C Transverse sinus
• D Both superior and inferior petrosal sinuses ✓

Explanation

The cavernous sinus drains posteriorly through both the superior petrosal sinus (which runs along the superior margin of the petrous temporal bone to the transverse sinus) and the inferior petrosal sinus (which runs in a groove between the clivus and petrous apex to drain directly into the internal jugular vein). This dual drainage is clinically relevant in carotid-cavernous fistulas and sinus thrombosis spread.

Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.

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