Spheno-maxillary fossa

Spheno-maxillary fossa is a complex anatomical area located in the skull. It is also known as the pterygopalatine fossa and is a part of the human skull.

Etymology

The term "spheno-maxillary fossa" is derived from the Greek words "sphen" meaning wedge and "maxilla" meaning jawbone. The term "pterygopalatine" is derived from the Greek words "pteryx" meaning wing and "palate" meaning roof of the mouth.

Anatomy

The spheno-maxillary fossa is a small, pyramid-shaped space located between the sphenoid bone and the maxillary bone. It is bordered by the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone and the palatine bone. The fossa contains several important structures including the pterygopalatine ganglion, branches of the maxillary nerve, and the sphenopalatine artery.

Clinical Significance

Due to its location and the structures it contains, the spheno-maxillary fossa is clinically significant in several medical fields including neurosurgery, otolaryngology, and maxillofacial surgery. It is often involved in surgical procedures to treat conditions such as sinusitis, nasal polyps, and tumors of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.

Related Terms

• Sphenoid bone
• Maxillary bone
• Pterygoid process
• Palatine bone
• Pterygopalatine ganglion
• Maxillary nerve
• Sphenopalatine artery

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