Foramen rotundum

Foramen Rotundum

The Foramen Rotundum is a circular hole in the sphenoid bone of the skull that allows passage for the maxillary nerve. The term "Foramen Rotundum" is derived from Latin, where "foramen" means hole and "rotundum" means round.

Etymology

The term "Foramen Rotundum" is derived from Latin, where "foramen" means hole and "rotundum" means round. This is in reference to the round shape of the hole in the sphenoid bone.

Anatomy

The Foramen Rotundum is located in the middle cranial fossa, at the base of the skull. It is one of several openings (foramina) in the skull that allow passage for nerves and vessels. The Foramen Rotundum specifically allows passage for the maxillary nerve, a branch of the trigeminal nerve, and its associated vessels.

Clinical Significance

Due to its role as a passageway for the maxillary nerve, conditions that affect the Foramen Rotundum can have significant clinical implications. For example, inflammation or tumors in this area can lead to pain or numbness in the areas of the face served by the maxillary nerve.

Related Terms

• Sphenoid bone: The bone in the skull where the Foramen Rotundum is located.
• Maxillary nerve: The nerve that passes through the Foramen Rotundum.
• Trigeminal nerve: The larger nerve that the maxillary nerve branches from.
• Foramina: The plural of foramen, referring to any opening in the body that allows passage for nerves or vessels.

See Also

• Foramen ovale (skull)
• Foramen spinosum
• Foramen lacerum

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  Diagram showing the base of the skull, inferior surface.

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  Foramen rotundum location in the skull.

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  Base of skull with foramen rotundum highlighted.