Morphometric Study of the Jugular Foramen in Northwest Indian Population

Abstract

ABSTRACT Context Most of the approaches for skull base surgeries are designed to drill the bone around the jugular foramen for proper exposure. In order to achieve this, an understanding of normal morphometric dimensions of jugular foramen is necessary. Aim To conduct the morphometric analysis and anatomical variations of jugular foramen (JF) in Northwest Indian population. Settings and design Anatomic study using human skulls. Materials and methods Anteroposterior and mediolateral diameter of jugular foramen, depth (if domed) and width of jugular fossa were measured with the help of digital vernier caliper. Statistical analysis used The mean, standard deviation (SD) and range of each dimension was computed. A comparison between right and left jugular foramina was made by using student's t-test. Results Mediolateral diameter of jugular foramen and width of jugular fossa was significantly higher on the right side. An abnormal unilateral blockage of jugular foramen by a bone growth converting it into a slit was noted with anteroposterior (AP) diameter of 2.37 mm in one skull. Bilateral complete septation of jugular foramen into two and three compartments was observed in 2 (4%) and 3 (6%) of the skulls respectively. The domed bony roof was noticed in 66% of the skulls on both the sides. Conclusion The observed variations of JF are possibly due to constitutional, racial or genetic factors. Knowledge of the observed variations of this foramen may be important for neurosurgeons, radiologists and anthropologists. Key message The total subdivision of jugular foramen is not common in our environment. The jugular foramen is generally larger on right side. This study supports reported morphometric variations of jugular foramen, besides adding data on the Northwest Indian population. Abbreviation CC: carotid canal; BO: basi-occiput; OC: occipital condyle; JF: jugular foramen; S: styloid process. How to cite this article Singla A, Sahni D, Aggarwal A, Gupta T, Kaur H. Morphometric Study of the Jugular Foramen in Northwest Indian Population. J Postgrad Med Edu Res 2012;46(4):165-171.