Tributaries of cavernous sinus are all except
**Core Concept**
The cavernous sinus is a critical structure in the brain, surrounded by dural folds, and contains several important tributaries that drain deoxygenated blood. Understanding the anatomy of these tributaries is essential for diagnosing and managing various neurological conditions. The **cavernous sinus** receives blood from various facial veins and cerebral veins.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is based on the anatomy of the cavernous sinus and its tributaries. The **superior ophthalmic vein**, **inferior ophthalmic vein**, and **central vein of the retina** are all known tributaries of the cavernous sinus, playing a role in the drainage of the face and orbit.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect because the superior ophthalmic vein is indeed a tributary.
**Option B:** Incorrect as the inferior ophthalmic vein also drains into it.
**Option C:** Incorrect since the central vein of the retina does drain into the cavernous sinus.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's crucial to remember that the cavernous sinus is a key structure in the spread of infection from the face to the brain, given its unique venous drainage pattern.
**Correct Answer:** D. Inferior retinal vein is not a typical tributary, the correct term would be central vein of the retina.