Middle cranial fossa
Middle Cranial Fossa
The Middle Cranial Fossa (/ˈkræniəl ˈfɒsə/; from Latin fossa, meaning "ditch" or "trench") is a depression in the floor of the cranial cavity. It is one of three such depressions (the anterior, middle, and posterior cranial fossae), which together house the brain.
Anatomy
The Middle Cranial Fossa is deeper and situated more centrally than the Anterior Cranial Fossa. It extends from the lesser wings of the sphenoid anteriorly, to the petrous part of the temporal bones posteriorly. It houses several important structures, including the temporal lobes of the brain, the pituitary gland, and several cranial nerves.
Structures
The Middle Cranial Fossa contains several foramina (openings) through which various structures pass. These include:
- The Optic Canal, which transmits the optic nerve and ophthalmic artery.
- The Superior Orbital Fissure, which transmits several cranial nerves and blood vessels.
- The Foramen Rotundum, which transmits the maxillary nerve.
- The Foramen Ovale, which transmits the mandibular nerve.
- The Foramen Spinosum, which transmits the middle meningeal artery.
Clinical Significance
Due to its location and the vital structures it houses, damage to the Middle Cranial Fossa can have serious consequences. Conditions such as Temporal Lobe Epilepsy and Pituitary Tumors can affect the structures within the fossa. Additionally, fractures of the base of the skull often involve the Middle Cranial Fossa.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Middle cranial fossa
- Wikipedia's article - Middle cranial fossa
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