Jugular foramen

Jugular foramen is a large aperture in the base of the skull. It is located behind the carotid canal and is formed in front by the petrous portion of the temporal bone, and behind by the occipital bone; it is generally larger on the right than on the left side.

Etymology

The term "jugular" originates from the Latin word "jugulum" which means throat. The term "foramen" is derived from Latin and means "hole" or "opening".

Structure

The jugular foramen may be subdivided into three compartments, each with their own contents. The anterior compartment transmits the inferior petrosal sinus. The intermediate compartment transmits the glossopharyngeal nerve, vagus nerve, and accessory nerve. The posterior compartment transmits the sigmoid sinus (becoming the internal jugular vein) and some meningeal branches from the occipital artery and ascending pharyngeal artery.

Clinical significance

The jugular foramen has clinical significance due to the structures that pass through it. Lesions, such as glomus jugulare tumors, that expand into the foramen can cause symptoms related to the structures that pass through the foramen. These symptoms can include dysphagia, hoarseness, and loss of voice due to involvement of the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves.

See also

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

References

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