Anatomical Study On Location Of Greater Palatine Foramen In Dried Adult Human Skull: Key To Successful Maxillary Nerve Block

ABSTRACT

Background: The greater palatine foramen (GPF) conducts greater palatine nerve, responsible for the innervationof posterior part of the hard palate. Anaesthetic block for greater palatine nerve is highly recommended forsurgical practices involving upper molar, maxillary sinus and nasal region. But the practical problem associatedwith anaesthesia is difficulty in locating the exact position of greater palatine foramen, leading to deliveringinsufficient anaesthetic solution. The greater palatine neurovascular structures enter the oral cavity through thegreater palatine foramen so this foramen should be approached carefully during any surgical procedures toavoid damage to these neurovascular structure.Materials and methods: 126 dried adult skull bones of unknown sex, obtained from the department of anatomy,MVJ Medical College and Research Hospital were used to locate the exact position of greater palatine foramen inrelation to bony landmarks. On both side, the distance of greater palatine foramen from midline maxillarysuture, posterior border of hardpalate, incisive fossa and lesser palatine foramen were measured with digitalvernier caliper. Location of GPF in relation to molar or premolar tooth was also noted. The data obtained wereanalyzed statistically by calculating mean and standard deviation. The percentage was calculated for the locationof GPF in relation to molar or premolar tooth.Result: In the present study of anthropometric analysis of greater palatine foramen of 126 dried skulls, it wasobserved that the most common location of greater palatine foramen was opposite to the third molar tooth. Themean distance between greater palatine foramen to mid maxillary suture was 13.71mm on right side and13.72mm on left side and posterior border of hard palate on right side was 4.62mm and 4.49mm on left side. Themean distance between greater palatine foramen and incisive fossa was 36.73mm and 36.66mm on the right andleft side respectively. The mean distance between greater palatine foramen and lesser palatine foramen was1.47mm on right side and 1.49 mm on left side.Conclusion: Results of present study may contribute greatly to the successful outcome of maxillofacial and oralsurgeries regional anaesthesia.