A Morphometric Study of Variations in Cranial Foramen Ovale in Dry Human Skulls

Background: The cranial foramina transmit critical neurovascular structures. The foramen ovale, which allows passage of the mandibular nerve and associated vessels, is of particular clinical importance during procedures such as trigeminal nerve block, percutaneous rhizotomy and other middle cranial fossa interventions. Variations in its morphometry may influence surgical access and radiological interpretation.

Aim: To evaluate the morphometric variations of cranial foramina with special emphasis on the foramen ovale in dry adult human skulls.

Materials and Methods: This descriptive observational study was conducted on 32 dry adult human skulls of unknown age and sex obtained from the Department of Anatomy, G.S. Medical College & Hospital and Rama Medical College & Hospital. The foramen ovale was examined bilaterally for shape, size, symmetry and presence of accessory foramina or unusual features. Shapes were categorized as oval, round, almond-shaped, or irregular. Observations were documented and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results: Considerable variation in the morphometry of the foramen ovale was observed. On the left side, oval shape was seen in 9 skulls (28.1%), round in 2 (6.25%), almond-shaped in 3(9.4%) and irregular in 2(6.25%).On the right side, oval shape was noted in7 skulls (21.9%), round in 3 (9.4%), almond-shaped in 5 (15.6%), and irregular in1 (3.1%). Bilateral asymmetry was present in 19 skulls (59.4%). Accessory foramen ovale was identified in 2 skulls (6.25%), and partial fusion with the foramen spinosum was observed in 1 skull (3.1%).

Conclusion: The foramen ovale demonstrates significant morphometric variability. Detailed anatomical knowledge of these variations is essential to enhance surgical precision and reduce procedural complications.