A study of mastoid foramina in adult human skulls

Abstract

Background: Variations in the foramina of the craniofacial skeleton have always been an important topic of research among the anatomists as well as other research workers. These cranial variants are of great importance, both clinically and anthropologically. Therefore, the present study was carried out to study the prevalence of mastoid foramen, their number and position. Materials and methods: 50 dry adult human skulls of unknown sex and age were collected and analysed for the presence or absence of mastoid foramen, their number and location. Results: Mastoid foramen was observed in 89% and absent in 11% cases. Absent mastoid foramen was found more prevalent on the left side than on the right side. The mastoid foramen was found most predominantly in the mastoid part of temporal bone (90%), in the occipitomastoid suture in 9% and in the squamous part of occipital bone in 1%. Conclusion: The findings were discussed and compared with those of other workers so as to come to a significant inference. Knowledge of the mastoid foramen and its variations along with the structures passing through it is important during surgery in this region to avoid complications.