Morphometric Aspects of the Jugular Foramen and Jugular Fossa in Dry Skulls of Central India

ABSTRACT

Jugular foramen is a large irregular hiatus at the base of the skull which transmits a large number of important structures. Any abnormality of jugular foramen and associated jugular fossa may impart damage to these structures. Aim of the present study was to analyse the shape, size, presence of septa, presence of a domed bony roof and bilateral symmetry of the Jugular foramen in dry adult skulls of males and females in the central Indian population. METHODSA total of 120 skull jugular foramina and jugular fossae were examined, by two different researchers to avoid observer errors. Parameters studied were anteroposterior and transverse diameters of jugular foramen, width and depth of jugular fossa, presence of bony septum etc. Data was collected and analysed using statistical software. RESULTSAntero-posterior and transverse diameters of right jugular foramen were found to be more than left one. Complete septation of jugular foramen was observed in 1.67 % and 2.5 % skulls on right and left side respectively. Bony roof or dome of jugular fossa was observed in 30 %, 17.5 % and 16.67 % on the right side, the left side, and bilaterally respectively. In 10.83 % skulls, we found an accessory foramen connecting jugular foramen to anterior condylar canal. CONCLUSIONSDetailed knowledge of various anomalies of jugular fossa and jugular foramen should be kept in mind while doing surgery by neurosurgeons and ENT surgeons. Radiologists also should keep these points in the mind while interpreting CT and MRI scans.