Clinical and anatomical importance of foramen magnum and craniocervical junction structures in the perspective of surgical approaches

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the clinical and anatomical importance of the relevant region from the perspective of surgical approaches by determining the morphometric analysis of the craniocervical junction and foramen magnum (FM) region and determining their distances from important anatomical points. This research was carried out with 59 skulls found at the Anatomy Laboratories of Erciyes and Ankara Medipol University. Metric measurements of FM and condyle, FM shape, condyle-fossa relationship, and pharyngeal tubercle (PT) were made in mm-based dry bone samples of unknown age and sex. The distance between the anterior notches and the FM was 87.01±4.35, the distance between the anterior notches and the PT was 77.70±4.24, the distance between the PT-sphenooccipital junction was 13.23±2.42, and the FM index was 81.86±7.47. The anteroposterior and transverse lengths of FM were determined as 33.80±2.99 and 27.72±2.30, respectively. The morphometric and morphological data available regarding the craniocervical junction showed significant differences between populations. Comprehensive knowledge of this topic will provide a better approach to treat Arnold Chiari Malformation, FM meningiomas, and other posterior cranial fossa lesions. Therefore, we believe that FM and craniocervical junction morphology will be a guide not only for anatomists, but also for radiologists, neurosurgeons, ENT surgeons, and orthopedists.

Morphometric analysis of the foramen magnum in the Peruvian population

“…Detailed anatomical studies in different countries have revealed significant variations in the dimensions of the foramen magnum and condyles, emphasizing the need to consider local anatomical peculiarities in neurosurgical interventions. [ 7 ] For instance, analyses in Europe have highlighted variations between genders in foramen magnum measurements,[ 5 , 8 , 9 , 11 , 16 , 23 , 25 , 26 , 38 ] while in Asia, distinct differences between men and women in various cranial measurements have been observed. [ 14 , 18 , 24 , 28 , 31 , 32 , 34 ] These anatomical discrepancies can influence surgical techniques, emphasizing the relevance of an approach tailored to the region and/or geographical area to enhance the outcomes of craniotomies.…”

“…These indices could establish specific parameters for each region, considering the anatomical differences found in detailed anatomical studies. [ 7 , 22 ] By developing customized indices according to geography, surgical techniques could be enhanced, allowing for more precise planning adapted to the unique anatomical characteristics of each population. This personalized approach could reduce risks during cranial interventions, optimizing the effectiveness of procedures and improving postoperative outcomes in neurosurgical surgeries.…”

“…ese indices could establish specific parameters for each region, considering the anatomical differences found in detailed anatomical studies. [7,22] By developing customized indices according to geography, surgical techniques could be enhanced, allowing for more precise planning adapted to the unique anatomical…”