3D, T2-weighted SPACE axial MRIs of normal abducens nerve

3D, T2-weighted SPACE axial MRIs of normal abducens nerve (A) and magnified inset (D) show the abducens nerve (arrows) exiting the pons at the level of the pontomedullary junction.

(B and magnified inset E) The nerve courses through the prepontine cistern vertically, posterior to the clivus.

(C and magnified inset F) The nerve pierces the dura at the Dorello canal (thick arrow) to enter the cavernous sinus where it travels just lateral to the cavernous carotid. The arrowhead indicates the anterior pontine arachnoid membrane.