ANATOMICAL VARIABILITY OF FORAMEN VESALIUS USING CONE BEAM COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to provide a detailed morphometric analysis of the foramen Vesalius (FV) using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) to understand its anatomical variations and clinical implications.

Material and Methods: A retrospective study was
conducted at JSS Dental College and Hospital, analyzing 140 CBCT scans (68 males, 72 females) of subjects aged 11-70 years. Inclusion criteria were diagnostic-quality
images showing the skull base with clear FV views.
Exclusion criteria included partial images, artifacts, pathologies, or previous surgeries. Prevalence of FV, unilateral/bilateral presentation, and distances to foramen Ovale (FO) and foramen Spinosum (FS) were measured using Planmeca Romexis 5.3 software. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.

Results: AFV prevalence varied significantly by sex, with bilateral occurrences being more common
(44.64%) than unilateral (18.72%) or absent (37.44%). Males had higher bilateral FV (25.92%) and lower ab-
sent FV (17.28%) compared to females (18.72% and 20.16%, respectively).
Mean distances between FV and FO were 3.176 mm (right) and 4.689 mm (left) in females, and 3.922 mm
(right) and 4.699 mm (left) in males. Distances between FV and FS were 11.966 mm (right) and 14.028 mm (left) in females, and 13.063 mm (right) and 14.206 mm (left)
in males.

Age-related variations were observed, with the highest bilateral FV prevalence in the 21-30 and 51-60 age groups.

Conclusions: The morphometric analysis of FV highlights significant anatomical variations by sex and age, emphasizing the need for precise surgical planning. Understanding these variations can minimize procedural risks and optimize treatment outcomes in neurosurgical and radiological interventions.

Keywords: : Foramen vesalius, Cone beam computed tomography, Foramen ovale, Foramen spinosum, Anatomical variation lationships between the foramen Vesalius and neighboring structures, offering valuable insights for surgical planning and interventional procedures. Its ability to provide comprehensive imaging data makes CBCT a valuable tool in the analysis of foramen Vesalius morphology and pathology [3].

By employing CBCT technology, this study aimed to provide precise measurements and detailed three-dimensional reconstructions of the foramen Vesalius,

elucidating any population-specific anatomical variations. This study was also aimed to contribute to the understanding of cranial anatomy, potentially inform-
ing clinical practice, surgical interventions, and diagnostic approaches related to neuro-vascular conditions involving the foramen Vesalius.