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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ija.2320.0022.7518.2

Abstract

Introduction: The supraorbital notch/foramen (SON/F) is present in the frontal bone through which the supraorbital nerve passes. The knowledge regarding the different positions of the SON/F becomes essential while performing surgeries around the orbit and in the face. This study aims to provide a baseline metrical data regarding the supraorbital foramen (SOF) in eastern Indian population. Material and Methods: In this study 52 dry human skulls (36 male, 16 female) were taken and a detailed viewing of all 104 sides was done for its form, position and occurrence along with measuring the dimensions of SON/F and its distance from different bony landmarks. Result: Our study shows the supraorbital notch was present more commonly as in 76.92%cases than supraorbital foramen which was found only in 23.08% cases. The mean distances of SON/F from the mid facial line is 19.9±3.8 mm on left and 20.9±3.4 mm on right, from the frontozygomatic suture it is 28.1±2.5 mm in left and 27.7±1.9 mm in right. And from the temporal crest is found to be 25.5±2.5 mm in left and 25.4±2.3 mm in right.

Conclusion: Accuracy in knowing the position of SON/F will aid preventing iatrogenic damage to the supraorbital nerve in various surgeries.

 

Keywords : Supraorbital Foramen; Supraorbital Notch; Accessory Foramina; Mid Facial Line; Frontal Bone; Frontozygomatic Suture.

Corresponding Author : Dr. Bikash Chandra Satapathy, Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Mangalagiri, Temporary Campus, Siddhartha Medical College, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520008, India.