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Epipteric bones in the pterion may be a surgical pitfall
M Ersoy1, C Evliyaoglu, M C Bozkurt
1Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomy, University of Kirikkale, Kirikkale, Turkey.
Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery : MIN
|February 18, 2004
Summary
Pterion variations, including epipteric bones, can be a surgical pitfall. Accurate identification of the pterion is crucial to avoid inadvertent orbital penetration during neurosurgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Anatomy
- Anthropology
Background:
- The pterion is a key neurosurgical landmark.
- It is formed by the junction of the frontal, parietal, sphenoid, and temporal bones.
- Pterion variations can pose surgical risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify pterion variations.
- To assess the surgical implications of these variations.
Main Methods:
- Examined 300 adult skulls (490 sides).
- Measured the distance from the lateral orbital rim to the pterion.
- Eliminated 110 sides due to damage.
Main Results:
- Epipteric bones were found in 9% (44 sides) of skulls.
- In these cases, the pterion could be as close as 16 mm to the lateral orbital rim.
- Anterius and proprium types of epipteric bones were noted.
Conclusions:
- Pterion variations, especially with epipteric bones, can lead to misidentification.
- Incorrect burr hole placement may risk orbital penetration.
- Awareness of these anatomical variations is vital for surgical safety.