Morphometric analysis of foramen ovale and its clinical implications

Objective-The objective of this study is to reveal the morphometric measurement of foramen ovale in dry adult human skulls. Methodology- The foramen ovale of 100 dry adult human skull were examined by digital vernier caliper. The length and width of foramen ovale of both side were measured. The variation in shape and any bony out growth present in foramen ovale was also recorded. The data was tabulated and analysed statistically. Result- The mean length of foramen ovale was 7.82 ± 1.29mm (right) and 7.67 ± 0.99mm (left). The mean value of width of foramen ovale was 4.73 ± 0.86mm (right) and 4.86 ± 0.88mm (left). The shape of the foramen ovale was typically oval in most of the skull with some bony out growth like tubercle, spine etc. Conclusion- There is no statistically significant difference between the two sides in length and width. Proper knowledge on the location, dimensions and variations of foramen ovale will be providing guidance to neurosurgeons while performing various procedures through foramen ovale