Size and shape of the pterygopalatine fossa of the skull of a child aged 3–5 years based on the analysis of computed tomography scans

Abstract

Relevance. This work is relevant due to the fact that the pterygomaxillary fossa (PMF) and the underlying pterygopalatine ganglion (PPG) attract the attention of clinicians developing surgical accesses to this ganglion. Currently, there is no detailed description of the size and shape of the PMF in children during the period of formed primary occlusion. The aim is to study the size and shape of the PMF on the basis of computed tomography during the period of formed primary occlusion. Materials and methods. To study the size and shape of the PMF, the analysis of frontal and axial CT scans of 12 children (24 CT scans) aged 3.5–4.5 years was carried out. On the basis of these data, a three-dimensional reconstruction of the PMF was created. Results. Four parts were distinguished in the PMF: the main one adjacent to the sphenopalatine foramen (SPF), and funnel-shaped constrictions: the vestibule of the pterygoid canal, the vestibule of the greater palatine canal and the vestibule of the pterygomaxillary fissure. It is suggested that the PPG lies in the vestibule of the pterygoid canal. Data on the main dimensions of the PMF were also obtained. Conclusion. PMF in children aged 3.5–4.5 years is characterized by a complex structure of the cavity, suggesting a different position of the PPG in it than is commonly believed. This circumstance, as well as for the first time the sizes of the PMF determined by us, should be taken into account when developing surgical access to the PMF and the PPG.