Assistant Professor,

Background: The hypoglossal canal transmits the nerve that supplies the motor innervations to the tongue. Studies on morphometry of hypoglossal canal and its variation has been a field of considerable interest to research workers especially because of their racial and regional importance. Material &Methods: In the present study, 100 adult dry human crania of known sex were studied for hypoglossal canal and its variants. The skulls were observed for any damage of post cranial fossa and those in good condition were selected. Sliding Vernier caliper was used for morphometric analysis. Results: The anteroposterior diameter and transverse breadth of hypoglossal canal was more in male than in females. In both sexes, length was more on left side than right side, while breadth was more on right side in females. Unilateral double hypoglossal canal was noted in 25 % dry skulls whereas bilateral double hypoglossal canal in 3 % dry skulls. Conclusion: Detailed morphometric analysis of hypoglossal canal will help in planning of surgical intervention of skull base in safer and easier ways