Cerebrospinal Fluid Production & Circulation

Step 4

As CSF flows through the subarachnoid space, it removes waste products and provides buoyancy to support the brain.

Step 2

CSF flows from the 3rd ventricle through the cerebral aqueduct into the 4th ventricle.

Step 1

CSF is produced by the choroid plexus in the ventricles.

Step 3

CSF then flows into the subarachnoid space by passing through the paired lateral apertures or the single median aperture and into the central canal of the spinal cord.

Step 5

Excess CSF flows into the arachnoid villi and then drains into the dural venous sinuses. The greater pressure on CSF in the subarachnoid space ensures that it moves into the venous sinuses without permitting venous blood to enter the subarachnoid space.