Aim:To observe and analyze the presence, laterality and shape of Foramen Vesali in South Indian adult human dry skulls and to correlate it with clinical considerations.
Background: Foramen Vesali is also known as the Sphenoidal emissary foramen.It is present in the greater wing of the sphenoid bone medial to the foramen ovale.It is occasionally present in the skull. If it is present it opens near the scaphoid fossa. It forms the passageway between the pterygoid plexus and the cavernous sinus.It plays a minor role in the blood circulation.
Materials And Methods:A total of 50 dry human skulls of unknown sex and without any gross abnormality were collected and evaluated. In each skull the presence, the shape and laterality of Foramen Vesali was analyzed.
Results:Out of the total 50 skulls observed the foramen Vesali was present in 32 skulls(64%) and absent in 18 skulls(36%). Of the total 32 skull containing the foramen Vesali, in 10 skulls(20%) it was present bilaterally, in 13 skulls(26%) it was present on right side and in 9 skulls (18%) it was present on left side.
Conclusion:Variations, number and laterality of foramen Vesali is variable and therefore recognition of this anatomical structure is important in radiography and surgical procedures.