Brain Herniation Types - Illustrated

Subfalcine Herniation

The cingulate gyrus is pushed laterally away from the expanding mass and herniates beneath the falx cerebri.

Central herniation

Central herniation occurs when there is downward pressure centrally and can result in bilateral uncal herniation.

Transtentorial (Uncal) Herniation

Due to the cerebral edema, the uncus of the temporal lobe (medial temporal lobe) herniates downward into the posterior fossa.

Tonsillar Herniation

If there is also edema or hemorrhage causing swelling in the cerebellum, the tonsil (or tonsils) of the cerebellum herniates downward into the foramen magnum.