MASTOID FORAMEN Meaning and
Definition
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Mastoid foramen is a term used in anatomy to refer to a small opening or hole located in the human skull, specifically in the temporal bone. The term "mastoid" originates from the mastoid process, which is a prominence on the temporal bone located just behind the ear. The mastoid foramen is situated within this process.
Anatomically, the mastoid foramen serves as a passageway for blood vessels, nerves, and other structures. It allows the passage of the mastoid emissary vein, a vein that connects the veins of the scalp with the dural venous sinuses within the cranial cavity. This venous pathway plays a role in regulating blood flow and drainage. Additionally, the mastoid foramen allows the passage of small nerves and vessels that supply the mastoid air cells, which are small, hollow spaces within the mastoid process.
Understanding the location and function of the mastoid foramen is crucial in various medical disciplines. For example, surgeons operating in the region, such as otolaryngologists or neurosurgeons, must be familiar with the anatomical structures surrounding the mastoid foramen to avoid complications during procedures. Radiologists may also analyze imaging studies of the temporal bone to assess the patency or any abnormalities related to this opening. Furthermore, a knowledge of the mastoid foramen's role in venous drainage and neurovascular supply is essential in comprehending and managing certain medical conditions, such as mastoiditis or specific types of headaches.
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Foramen mastoldeum, an opening of some size in the posterior border of the mastoid portion of the temporal bone, transmitting an artery to the dura and a vein to the lateral sinus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MASTOID FORAMEN
- nastoid foramen
- kastoid foramen
- jastoid foramen
- mzstoid foramen
- msstoid foramen
- mwstoid foramen
- mqstoid foramen
- maatoid foramen
- maztoid foramen
- maxtoid foramen
- madtoid foramen
- maetoid foramen
- mawtoid foramen
- masroid foramen
- masfoid foramen
- masgoid foramen
- masyoid foramen
- mas6oid foramen
- mas5oid foramen
- mastiid foramen
Etymology of MASTOID FORAMEN
The word "mastoid" originates from the Greek word "mastoeidēs", which means "breast-like" or "nipple-like". This term refers to the breast-shaped prominence on the lower rear side of the skull where the mastoid process is located.
The word "foramen" also has Latin and Greek roots. It comes from the Latin word "forāmen", meaning "opening" or "hole", derived from the Latin word "forāre", which means "to bore" or "to pierce". In Greek, "foramen" is translated as "ὀπή" (opḗ) or "forāmen" (φορῶ, phorô). This term is used in anatomy to describe any small opening, hole, or passage in bone or tissue.
Similar spelling word for MASTOID FORAMEN
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