The base of the human skull harbours numerous foramina that serve as vital conduits for neurovascular structures. A detailed understanding of their anatomy and morphometry is crucial for clinical, surgical, and forensic applications. Despite the intricate importance of these structures, there remains a paucity of region-specific morphometric data, especially concerning the Indian population. This book endeavours to bridge that gap.
The present work is the culmination of a comprehensive anatomical and morphometric study of skull base foramina, conducted on two distinct datasets—dry human skulls and CT scans of adult patients. By employing both direct and radiological methodologies, this study offers a more holistic and comparative perspective on the anatomical variability and morphometric dimensions of the skull base foramina.
One of the primary objectives of this research was to document and analyse the dimensional asymmetries and positional variations of individual foramina. Statistical tools were applied to discern significant differences between the right and left sides, revealing notable asymmetry in structures such as the jugular foramen and the foramen spinosum. Furthermore, the distances between specific foramina and reliable osseous landmarks were examined, which may prove valuable in neurosurgical navigation and forensic reconstruction.
This book also highlights a relatively underexplored area in cranial morphometry—the inter foraminal distances at the skull base. Such measurements hold potential not only in enhancing anatomical understanding but also in supporting forensic identification and radiological assessments.
It is my hope that this work will serve as a valuable reference for radiologists, neurosurgeons, anatomists, and forensic experts. By contributing region-specific data and insights, it aims to support both academic research and practical applications in the field of clinical anatomy.
