Dry Skulls Research Articles

Effect of hydration on the anatomical form of human dry skulls

In radiology research soft tissues are often simulated on bone specimens using liquid materials such as water, or gel-like materials, such as ballistic gel. This study aimed to test the effect of hydration on the anatomical form of dry craniofacial bone specimens. Sixteen human dry skulls and 16 mandibles were scanned with an industrial scanner in dry conditions and after water embedding. Ten skulls were also embedded for different time periods (5 or 15 min). The subsequent 3D surface models were best-fit superimposed and compared by calculating mean absolute distances between them at various measurement areas. There was a significant, primarily enlargement effect of hydration on the anatomical form of dry skeletal specimens as detected after water embedding for a short time period. The effect was smaller in dry skulls (median 0.20 mm, IQR 0.17 mm) and larger in mandibles (median 0.56 mm, IQR 0.57 mm). The effect of different water embedding times was negligible. Based on the present findings, we suggest to shortly hydrate the skeletal specimens prior to reference model acquisition so that they are comparable to hydrated specimens when liquid materials are used as soft-tissue simulants for various radiologic research purposes.

Area of Nasal Triangle in an Adult Human Dry Skull: An Anatomical Study

Background: The nose is a piriform aperture on the face having roots and a tip or base. Root is continuous above with the forehead. It is one of the most prominent parts of the face which comprises of bony and cartilaginous portions. The bony part is formed by nasal bone, frontal bone and maxilla. The cartilaginous part is mainly formed by septal, major alar, lateral cartilage, and a few minor cartilages. Present study was carried out with objectives of determining important measurements like distance between right and left infraorbital foramina to nasion, distance between right and left infraorbital foramina and nasal height. Then findings are used to determine nasal index. Methods: All twenty-five dry adult human skulls are collected from Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Science, and Chitwan Medical College for study. Gender and ethnicity of scapula were undefined. The ethical clearance was taken from IRC-CMC (Ref: CMC-IRC/079/080-050). All damaged skull and small skull of pediatric age group are excluded. Nasal index was calculated by using formula nasal index = nasal width / nasal height X 100. Photographs were taken. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 20 version software and analyzed as frequency and distribution. Total twenty-five of skulls were measured. Results: Among the twenty-four human dry skulls, with one damaged skull is excluded, study showed that right sided mean distance between nasion and right sided infraorbital foramen and left sided mean distance between nasion and left sided infraorbital foramen are 40.57±3.71 mm and 39.53±4.77 mm respectively. The mean distance between right and left infraorbital foramen, mean nasal height and mean nasal index are 46.80±8.52 mm,16.98±3.008 mm and 47.74±10.90 respectively mm i.e., Hyper Leptorrhine (≤54.9). Conclusion: The data obtained from the present study will be useful when repairing the nose, for facial reconstructive surgeries and also in forensic investigation.

Occipital spur: an incidental finding on a diagnostic cone-beam computed tomography – a case report

Exaggerated bony outgrowth of the external occipital protuberance is called occipital spur. The current report presents a case of a 20-year-old male patient seeking orthodontic treatment. The patient was referred for a cone-beam computed tomography scan to determine the position of impacted maxillary canines. An incidental finding on the scan was the existence of a focal spine-like hyperostosis in the occipital protuberance, and confirmed to be an occipital spur (Type III spine form). Clinical examination showed a palpable bone swelling without any tenderness, infection or discharge. He was referred to an orthopaedic surgeon should any symptoms get aggravated in the future. This case supports the essential role of cone-beam computed tomography to detect, analyse and identify the lesion as an occipital spur. This is the first such case report of its kind, which measures the size of occipital spur using cone-beam computed tomography and 3D imaging software. Usually asymptomatic, awareness of this uncommon presentation can expedite emergency medical care in the event of pain, or trauma leading to fracture or avulsion of the spur fragment. In such an event, the readily available CBCT data will be indispensable to surgeons for planning surgery with precise linear and volumetric measurements. Knowledge of these bony spurs is of untold value to anatomists, who will benefit greatly from being able to study the variants in vivo, in addition to studies on dry skulls or preserved cadavers. It is also of interest to clinicians and radiologists for diagnostic purposes, and sports physicians.

Anatomy of the mastoid triangle and morphometric sex differences

This study aimed to quantify the area of the mastoid triangle (MT) and assess potential morphometric differences between males and females. The sample consisted of 244 dry human skulls, with biological sex known based on genetic analysis, collected from a medicolegal osteological database from Central-Western Brazil. The study was observational, analytical, and cross-sectional. The skulls were analyzed using Heron's equation to calculate the area of the MT. The landmarks connecting each of the sides of the triangle were: Porion (Po)>Mastoidale (Ma)>Asterion (Ast). Morphometric references were calculated and compared based on sex. The area of the MT was nearly 14% larger in males compared to females (p<0.05). The mean MT area for the right and left sides of males were 684.11±93.25mm2 and 668.94±111.95mm2, respectively. In females, the mean MT for the right and left sides were 588.93±91.09mm2 and 582.88±102.98mm2, respectively. Right and left side measurements were significantly different (p<0.05), except for Po-Ast (p=0.232). Morphometric features regarding the MT were slightly different between males and females. Application of the MT as a dimorphic tool should be adjuvant. Moreover, this tool should be considered carefully, especially because the sex-based differences were statistically significant, but discrete between males and females.

Foramen tympanicum prevalence in the population of Southeast Brazil: a morphological study in computed tomography scans.

The foramen tympanicum is located on the anteroinferior region of the external acoustic meatus and posteromedial to the temporomandibular joint in children between the 1st and the 5th year of life. It is considered an anatomical variation when it persists in adults. The aim of this study was to verify the prevalence as well as to characterise the foramen tympanicum in computed tomography (CT) scans of the population from southeastern part of Brazil. A total of 78 CT scans of dry human skulls (20 female and 58 male) were used, which were selected randomly regarding the ages, ranged from 15 to 100 years. The foramen tympanicum was identified in the images of the axial plane and confirmed in the images of the coronal and sagittal planes. The largest diameter (in mm) was obtained. The descriptive statistics (in %), Fisher's test and χ2 test were performed to compare the prevalence of foramen tympanicum between sexes and sides. The probability value ≤ 0.05 was defined as a level of significance. Descriptive statistics were performed to verify the mean diameter of the foramen on the right and left sides of the skulls. The prevalence of foramen tympanicum was higher in females (p = 0.0070), bilaterally, as the absolute values of females were lower in relation to males. Fisher's exact test showed that the prevalence of foramen tympanicum was significantly higher in females (45%) than in males (15.52%). On the right side, the mean axial diameter was 2.23 mm (range 0.93-3.75 mm). On the left side, the mean axial diameter was 2.22 mm (range 0.9-3.61 mm). The knowledge of anatomical variations is extremely valuable for an accurate diagnosis, treatment plan and prognosis and a thorough preoperative assessment.

Anatomical observation and significance of the parietal foramen in Chinese adults.

This study aimed to investigate the incidence, number, diameter, and relative location of the parietal foramen (PF) as well as communication of intracranial and extracranial orifices and their direction, and sagittal suture morphology and length. A total of 280 dry Chinese adult skull specimens from the Department of Anatomy, Southern Medical University, were observed and measured. The occurrence rate and quantity of the PF near the sagittal suture were recorded. The aperture of the PF, the vertical distance between PF and sagittal suture, and the linear distance between PF and lambda were measured using a Vernier calliper. The length of the sagittal suture was measured by a flexible ruler; the direction and communication of intracranial and extracranial orifices were detected using a probe. The total incidence of the PF was 82.86%, slightly higher on the right side than on the left side. The single-foramen type was the most prevalent. The mean diameter of the PF on the left and right sides were 1.02 ± 0.72 mm and 1.07 ± 0.67 mm, respectively, and the diameter of the PF on the sagittal suture was 1.77 ± 0.44 mm. The mean vertical distance between the PF and the sagittal suture was 5.90 ± 2.78 mm and 5.85 ± 2.75 mm on the left and right sides, respectively. The shape of the sagittal suture in the PF area was primarily dentate shaped, with an average arc length of χ = 124.36 ± 7.76 mm, of which the majority were completely healed type. The intracranial and extracranial communication was 39.97%, and the majority of the PF were anteromedial direction. The current study provided an anatomical basis for imaging diagnosis and neurosurgery by investigating the incidence, diameter, and relative location of the PF and intracranial and extracranial communication and direction.

Finite element analysis dynamic simulation of projectile impact caliber .40 S&W in temporal bone with neural tissue

ABSTRACT Temporal bone is often hit by projectiles. Temporal gunshot wounds must be deeply evaluated to establish wound morphology and stress distribution. Finite element analysis (FEA) is a promising tool that can support forensic aspects. A three-dimensional finite element model of a dry skull filled with neural soft tissue and a projectile .40 calibre S&W were obtained. Two situations were simulated: shot angle fired at 90° with and without neural soft tissue. The results exhibit different morphologies in bony entrance wounds as well as the strong influence of soft tissue. There was good reproducibility between bone and neural tissue real behaviour, and the finite element model that was built. In conclusion, the presence of neural soft tissue cannot be neglected in gunshot wounds, since it does alter results.

Morphometric and morphological evaluation of temporozygomatic suture anatomy in dry adult human skulls.

This study aims to evaluate the position, morphometric, and morphological features of the temporozygomatic suture (TZS) located on the zygomatic arch (ZA) in dry adult human skulls. Thirty-two crania were evaluated. Measurements for the TZS were carried out using the ImageJ software. Morphometric measurements were carried out bilaterally in 23 crania and unilaterally in 9 crania (right: 4, left: 5). A total of 55 TZSs were analyzed. Localization of the TZS was determined according to the reference landmarks on the ZA. Morphologic features of the TZS evaluated in terms of "joint shape type" and "suture margin pattern". Descriptive statistics of the morphometric and morphologic variables were calculated. A statistically significant difference between the right and left sides was observed for the localization of the TZS (p < 0.05). TZS is located more anteriorly on the left side than the right side. Based on the "joint shape type", four types of TZS were observed: Type 1 (angular) (34.55%), Type 2 (curvy) (34.55%), Type 3 (oblique) (14.55%), Type 4 (horizontal) (16.36%). Based on the "suture margin pattern", five types of TZS were observed: Type A (linear) (12.73%), Type B (denticulate) (34.55%), Type C (serrated) (23.64%), Type D (mixt) (21.82%), Type E (fused) (7.27%). No significant association between the type and lateralization was found for both morphologic classifications. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first published report regarding the localization and morphologic classification of the TZS in adult human crania. Considering the TZS with its morphometric and morphological features may contribute to clinical or forensic medical evaluations.

Immersive Surgical Anatomy of the Far-Lateral Approach.

The far-lateral (FL) approach is a classic neurosurgical technique that enables access to the craniocervical junction, which includes the lower clivus, the anterior foramen magnum, and the first two cervical vertebrae. The FL approach also provides access to the inferior cranial nerves (i.e., CN IX, CN X, CN XI, and CN XII), distal portions of the vertebral artery (VA), and inferior basilar trunk. Recent advances in three-dimensional (3D) technology as well as dissections allow for a better understanding of the spatial relationships between anatomical landmarks and neurovascular structures encountered during neurosurgical procedures. This study aims to create a collection of volumetric models (VMs) obtained from cadaveric dissections that depict the FL approach's relevant anatomy and surgical techniques. We describe the relevant multilayer anatomy involved in the FL approach and discuss modifications of this approach as well. Five embalmed heads and two dry skulls were used to record and simulate the FL approach. Relevant steps and anatomy of the FL approach were recorded using 3D scanning technology (e.g., photogrammetry and structured light scanning) to construct high-resolution VMs. Images and VMs were generated to demonstrate major anatomical landmarks for the FL approach. The interactive models allow for clear visualization of the surgical anatomy and windows in 3D and extended reality, rendering a closer look at the nuances of the topography experienced in the laboratory. VMs can be valuable resources for surgical planning and anatomical education by accurately depicting important landmarks.

Do cone-beam computed tomography low-dose protocols affect the evaluation of the temporomandibular joint?

There is no established acquisition protocol based on scientific evidence for the acquisition of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) exams to evaluate the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). To evaluate the influence of acquisition protocols and jaw positioning on the diagnostic accuracy of TMJ condylar morphological alterations (CMA), dimension, position and excursion. Thirty-six TMJs on 18 dry skulls were imaged using a CBCT unit (OP300 Maxio, Instrumentarium, Tuusula, Finland) at two exposure settings (4.5 and 6.3mA), three voxel resolutions (0.085, 0.125 and 0.280 mm), three jaw positions (concentric, anteriorised and posteriorised) and three jaw excursions (normoexcursion, hyperexcursion and hypoexcursion). The macroscopic anatomy examination and high-resolution CBCT images were used as ground truth for CMA. Twenty-five TMJs had at least one CMA with 11 healthy TMJs serving as controls. Three experienced oral and maxillofacial radiologists evaluated the parasagittal images for the presence of CMA, position and excursion and measured dimensions. The area under the ROC curve, sensitivity and specificity were calculated. Weighted Kappa (α=0.05) was used to determine intra- and interexaminer reliability and comparisons between dependent variables analysed by Analysis of Variance at an a prior level of significance of 0.05. The agreement of the evaluation of the position and excursion with the reference standard was high, independent of the protocol (range, 0.75-0.91). Various combinations of acquisition protocols and jaw position did not influence the CMA evaluation. Erosion was overdiagnosed in protocols with larger voxel sizes and the detection of osteophytes greater in images with smaller voxel sizes. The anteroposterior dimension was greater in the open jaw position (p < .05). CBCT protocols using reduced radiation exposure from the CBCT machine evaluated in this study can be used to assess condylar morphology, dimension, position and excursion, without compromising diagnostic performances for these parameters.

Morphometric analysis of oculomotor triangle in dry human skulls and its clinical applications.

The oculomotor triangle is denoted as the "Triangle of Hakuba" or the "Hakuba's Triangle." This oculomotor triangle is a significant anatomical landmark. Oculomotor nerve, abducens nerve and part of the internal carotid artery (ICA) lie in this triangle. The determination of this analysis is to calculate the oculomotor triangle in dry processed skull bones of the south Indian population and its clinical significance. Fifty-one processed skulls of human origin were received from Anatomy Department, Basic Medical Sciences, Saveetha Dental College. Length from anterior-clinoid process (ACP) to posterior-clinoid process (PCP), length from PCP to APEX, and length from ACP to APEX were measured. Paired samples t-test was considered to analyze the values between the right triangle with the left triangle. From the measurements taken, the mean for the left side of the oculomotor triangle, ACP to PCP was 8.0591 ± 0.52 mm and the right side was 7.5482 ± 0.52 mm. The mean left side of the oculomotor triangle, measured from PCP to APEX was 6.73 ± 0.48 mm and the right side was 6.55 ± 0.72 mm. The mean of the left side of the oculomotor triangle, measured from ACP to APEX was 15.94 ± 0.682 mm and the right side was 16.21 ± 0.747 mm. Through this paired triangle of the cranial cavity, the horizontal section of ICA may be correlated with numerous vascular-related pathological considerations.

INCIDENCE OF ACCESSORY OPTIC CANAL IN DRY HUMAN SKULLS OF RAJASTHAN STATE

Introduction: Duplication of optic canal is very rare anomaly which has been seen in both sexes, at various ages and in a number of races. Duplications may be unilateral or bilateral out of which the bilateral duplications is a very rare phenomenon. The present study was undertaken with the aim to determine the incidence of accessory optic canal in dry human skulls of Rajasthan State. The present Materials and Methods: study was conducted using 400 dried human skulls which were thoroughly examined for the presence of unilateral or bilateral accessory optic canals. It was found that out of 400 skulls studied, the incidences of Accessory Results: Optic Canal (AOC) were present in 14 (3.5%) skulls. The AOCs were present unilaterally on the right side in 6 (1.5%), unilaterally on the left side in 5 (1.25%) and bilaterally in 3 (0.75%) skulls. Conclusion: The clinical awareness of duplication of optic canal increases the success rate of surgical procedure of optic canal like decompression, tumour excision, approaching sella turcica, cavernous sinus approach, pneumatization procedures.

MORPHOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF OPTIC CANAL LENGTH IN DRY HUMAN SKULLS OF RAJASTHAN STATE

Introduction: Optic Canal is situated in between the two roots of lesser wings of sphenoid, lateral to body of sphenoid. It is traversed by the optic nerve and ophthalmic artery, the nerve being medial to the artery. The study of optic canal has enormous clinical signicance as the optic nerve "The Nerve of Vision" travels through it. The present study was undertaken with the aim to determine the length of optic canal in dry human skulls of Rajasthan State. T Materials and Methods: he present study was conducted using 400 dried human skulls and lengths of the optic canal were measured along the medial wall. The length of optic canal at right side was 7.12 ± Results: 1.29 mm and at left side was 6.99 ± 1.27mm. Detailed anatomy of the optic ca Conclusion: nal is important to decipher the various pathologies of the region as well to guide surgical procedures and therapeutic options.

Comparison of orbital volume measured using computed tomography and fluid displacement: A comparative study using dry skull

Objectives: The purpose of the study was as follows: (1) To compare orbital volume calculated using computed tomography (CT) scans with real-time measurements. (2) To evaluate if the orbital volume of the adjacent orbit can be taken as a tool of comparison for orbital volume correction in orbital fractures. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 30 orbital cavities with intact orbital walls. The foramina and fissures were sealed using molding wax. Alginate impressions of the orbital cavity were taken to determine the orbital volume using the Archimedes principle. GE light speed 64 slices CT scanner was used to scan the orbits with 0.8 mm sections. Orbital volume was calculated using the CT software GE ADW 4.5 workstation. Results: The comparison of CT measurement and Archimedes principle measurement shows a mean and standard error of 0.2333 mm and 0.09794, respectively, on the right orbits and a mean and standard error of 0.10011 mm and 0.0981, respectively, on the left orbits. The comparison of the right and left orbits shows a mean and standard error of 0.4067 mm and 0.2771 mm, respectively, using the Archimedes principle and a mean and standard error of 0.3300 mm and 0.2775, respectively, using CT scans. Conclusion: It was found that the difference in orbital volume between CT and real-time measurement is very negligible. The study shows that CT is a reliable tool for the orbital volume measurement and the adjacent orbit can be taken as a comparative tool for the orbital volume corrections.

Morphometric Analysis of Infraorbital Foramen in Human Dry Skulls

Background and aim: The infraorbital foramen morphometric and anatomical variations is the critical factor for avoiding iatrogenic nerve injuries during surgery on the middle third of the face with safe regional anesthesia. The present study aimed to carry out the morphometric analysis of infra orbital foramen in human dry skull. Material and Methods: This morphometric study was carried out on 72 dry human skulls in the Department of Anatomy, Surayya Azeem Teaching Hospital, Lahore from January 2022 to June 2022. Research and ethical committee approved the study protocol. Skulls of identified age and gender with no apparent pathology, traumatic lesions, and deformity were enrolled. Skulls (&gt;18 years) with bone resorption in the alveolar region and had orbital and nasal cavities damaged were excluded. Vernier caliper was used for the measurement of infra orbital foramen exact location on both sides. Transverse and sagittal diameter were measured. Infraorbital foramen and inferior margins of infraorbital margin were measured in order to determine the sagittal diameter. Infraorbital foramen medial margin to lateral margin of pyriform aperture was measured transversely. This study examined the relationship between the infraorbital foramen and the 1st premolar as well as its shape. There was also an indication of accessory foramen. SPSS version 26 was used for descriptive statistics. Results: Of the total 72 dry human skulls, there were 58 (80.6%) male and 14 (19.4%) females. The incidence of oval, triangular, semilunar, and round shape infra orbital foramen (left versus right) was (38.4% vs. 40.3%), (17.8% vs. 16.9%), (26.7% vs. 28.6%), and (17.1% vs. 14.2%) respectively. The occurrence of single and accessory intra orbital foramen was 91.8% and 8.2% respectively. The intra orbital foramen opening was directed medially downward, medially in, and downward was 34 (47.2%), 32 (44.4%), and 6 (8.3%) respectively. In association with upper teeth, the intra orbital foramen on the right and left side was 38.4% and 54.9% respectively; the buccal cusps of the maxillary second premolar teeth were located on the same vertical axis. Conclusion: The present study concluded that accurate localization of the IOF is essential to prevent infraorbital nerve injury. Additionally, foramen oval shape was the most prevalent shape followed by round shape. Knowledge regarding IOF location is critical in maxillofacial region during numerous surgery procedures which might lead to infraorbital vessels and nerve. Thus careful approach should be followed to avoid damage to foramen. Keywords: Infra orbital foramen, human skulls, morphometric analysis

Radiologic Evaluation of the Fossa Navicularis on Dry Skull: A Comparative CBCT Study.

Fossa navicularis (FN) is defined as bony depression that is not always present and is located anterior to the foramen magnum and pharyngeal tubercle on the inferior aspect of the basilar part of the occipital bone. It has been reported that FN can create an infection spread path from the pharynx to the intracranial structures. Therefore, the diagnosis of this variation is important. Although cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) diagnostic accuracy has mostly been verified in detection and quantification particularly on human skulls, there is no study comparing morphometric measurements between direct measurement on the skull and CBCT measurement. The main object of this study is to evaluate the presence of FN on dry bones and CBCT images of the same dry skull and to examine the morphometric and morphological features of this formation. Thirty-two random craniums that were made available for this study that did not have any fractures or deformities of the cranial base were examined. The sagittal diameter, transverse diameter, and depth of the FN was measured both directly on dry skulls and radiologically on CBCT images of dry skull. In addition, the shape of FN (SFN) was determined. FN was detected in 10 (31.25%) of 32 craniums examined with both modalities. It was determined that sagittal diameter of the FN, transverse diameter of the FN, depth of the FN, and the shape of FN did not show a statistically significant difference between the 2 measurements. Unlike the literature, FN was investigated on dry bones both directly and in CBCT images in this study. In contrast to previously thought the FN may be smaller according to this findings, and this small variation can be detected with CBCT images. According to this findings, it can be said that morphometric evaluations on CBCT are accurate and reliable, and CBCT is a safe method for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Morphometric analysis of foramen ovale and its clinical implications

Objective- The objective of this study is to reveal the morphometric measurement of foramen ovale in dry adult human skulls. Methodology- The foramen ovale of 100 dry adult human skull were examined by digital vernier caliper. The length and width of foramen ovale of both side were measured. The variation in shape and any bony out growth present in foramen ovale was also recorded. The data was tabulated and analysed statistically. Result- The mean length of foramen ovale was 7.82 ± 1.29mm (right) and 7.67 ± 0.99mm (left). The mean value of width of foramen ovale was 4.73 ± 0.86mm (right) and 4.86 ± 0.88mm (left). The shape of the foramen ovale was typically oval in most of the skull with some bony out growth like tubercle, spine etc. Conclusion- There is no statistically significant difference between the two sides in length and width. Proper knowledge on the location, dimensions and variations of foramen ovale will be providing guidance to neurosurgeons while performing various procedures through foramen ovale.

The Lingual Process of the Sphenoid Bone and the Petrolingual Ligament: Surgical Anatomy, Landmarks, and Clinical Relevance.

The lingual process of the sphenoid bone (LP) and the petrolingual ligament (PLL) surround laterally the internal carotid artery within the middle cranial fossa (MCF). To study the LP and the PLL and anatomical variations considering their relationships with different structures and landmarks within the MCF, especially oriented toward the endoscopic endonasal approaches. Seventy-two sides of dry skulls and 20 sides of embalmed specimens were studied. The measurements of the LP and the PLL were obtained, considering important landmarks in the MCF. The LP had a mean length and height of 5 mm and 3 mm, respectively. Its distance from the foramen lacerum was 6 mm, from the foramen ovale 10 mm, foramen rotundum 15 mm, and petrous apex 9 mm. In 44 sides (61.11%), the LP partially closed the lateral aspect of the carotid sulcus; in 17 sides (23.61%), it was found as a near-ring; and in 11 sides (15.2%), it was considered rudimentary. Considering the PLL, its length and height were, respectively, 9 mm, and 4 mm. The LP and PLL separate the carotid artery at the inferior aspect of Meckel's cave and constitute important landmarks for endoscopic endonasal approaches to Meckel's cave and MCF, and their identification and removal is essential for internal carotid artery mobilization in this area.

Morphometric analysis of bregma and lambda and presence of any Wormian bone in bregma in north Indian population

Determination of sex from the skeletal remains is of medico legal importance for establishing the identity of an individual. The determination of deceased sex is first step in skeletal analysis since estimation of age at death, race,and stature depends on sex of the deceased. Total 100 adult dry skull were of unknown sex available in the Department of Anatomy Santosh medical college and hospital,Gaziabad and Government Institute of Medical Sciences,Greater Noida, were studied. Distance between bregma and lambda were obtained and presence of any sutural bone was observed in bregma. The results were compared with the present literature. Still there is a demand for further research to validate the distance from bregma to lambda for anthropometric use for particular race and various other surgical procedures.

Anatomical dimensions and variances of the foramen ovale in adult human skulls

Background/Aim: The foramen ovale (FO) is very important in neurosurgical approaches; however, studies and developments in the literature report that no definite consensus about the cannulation of the FO is available. Therefore, more morphometric information concerning the FO is needed in addition to the previously defined morphological and morphometric features. The aim of this study was to compare the features of the foramen ovale stated in the literature and to analyze the topographic relationship between the FO and the anatomical structures around it to determine its precise location. Methods: The study included 70 sides from 35 dry skulls of unknown age and gender. Skulls with any deformity or pathology that would affect the measurements were not included in the study. All skulls were placed in the horizontal plane with the external occipital protuberance facing posteriorly, the piriform aperture facing anteriorly, and the skull base pointing upwards at a 90° angle after which it was photographed vertically with the length scale. A Nikon D5300 Digital Camera was used for the photography, and digital image processing software (Image J) was used for foramen ovale measurements. In addition, the shape of the foramen ovale was classified as oval, almond, D-shaped, slit-shaped, round, and irregular. SPSS 21.0 was used for the statistical analysis. Results: The mean anteroposterior diameter length of the FO was 6.144 mm, and the transverse diameter length was 2.885 mm. When the distribution of the shape of the FO was examined, oval and almond shapes were most common shapes (34.29%). In addition, round (12.85%), D-shaped (10%), and slit-shaped (8.57%) were obtained. According to Pearson’s correlation analysis, the highest correlation was between the distance from the carotid canal to the foramen ovale and the shortest distance from the foramen ovale to the midline (FO-CC and the FO-ML, respectively; r = 0.427). Conclusion: The morphology of the FO is important in terms of surgical and interventional approaches. In the literature, no significant differences between the right and left sides for the foramen ovale were found in contrast to our study. When the FO shape percentages were examined in most previous studies, it was seen that most of them were oval. In this study, the ratios of oval and almond shapes were the same. Morphometric measurements can give different results in every race due to the structure of the bones, which may vary according to the population. We think that presenting data on the Turkish population in this study will set an example for conducting future studies.