Mastoid foramen
Template:Short description Script error: No such module "Infobox".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". The mastoid foramen is a hole in the posterior border of the temporal bone. It transmits an emissary vein between the sigmoid sinus and the suboccipital venous plexus, and a small branch of the occipital artery, the posterior meningeal artery to the dura mater.
Structure
The mastoid foramen is a hole in the posterior border of the temporal bone of the skull.[1]
The opening of the mastoid foramen is an average of 18 mm from the asterion,[2] and around 34 mm from the external auditory meatus.[3] It is typically very narrow.[1][3] This may be around 2 mm.[3]
Variation
The position and size of this foramen are very variable.[1][3] It is not always present.[1][3] Sometimes, it is duplicated on one side or both sides.[1] Sometimes, it is situated in the occipital bone, or in the suture between the temporal bone and the occipital bone.
Function
The mastoid foramen transmits:
- an emissary vein between the sigmoid sinus and the suboccipital venous plexus or the posterior auricular vein.[1][2]
- a small branch of the occipital artery, the posterior meningeal artery, to the dura mater.[2]
References
Public domain This article incorporates text in the public domain from Template:Wikidatathe 20th edition of Gray's Anatomy (1918)
External links
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- Akram Abood Jaffar: Personal website, Anatomical variations
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