Accessory Foramina Presence Significantly Narrows the Jugular Foramen: Anatomical Study with Potential Neurosurgical...

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Neurosurgery
• Skull Base Surgery

Background:

• The jugular foramen (JF) transmits cranial nerves IX, X, and XI, vital for neurosurgical procedures.
• Anatomical variations within the JF, such as ossified dural septations, can impact surgical approaches and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incidence of ossified dural septations (accessory foramina) within the jugular foramen.
• To assess the impact of these ossifications on jugular foramen morphometry and discuss clinical implications.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 120 adult dried skulls for accessory foramina (AF).
• Morphometric measurements (height, width) of the JF using a digital caliper.
• Literature review and statistical analysis to correlate findings with clinical relevance.

Main Results:

• Complete AF observed in 2.92% of skulls; incomplete AF in 0.42%.
• Ossified septations significantly reduced JF height and width.
• Reduced JF dimensions may impede intraoperative manipulation of lower cranial nerves, increasing complication risks.

Conclusions:

• JF variants, particularly ossified septations, require recognition in neurosurgical practice.
• These variants can complicate skull base surgery, necessitating careful preoperative assessment.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the clinical ramifications for patient outcomes in skull base surgeries.