• V E Kantola, G W McGarry, and P M Rea.
• Laboratory of Human Anatomy, School of Life Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
• J Laryngol Otol. 2013 Nov 1; 127 (11): 1093-102.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to examine the feasibility of an endonasal, transmaxillary, transpterygoid approach to the foramen ovale by examining key anatomical, radiological and surgical landmarks.MethodMeasurements were taken from 183 patients' computed tomography scans using BrainLAB iPlan 1.1 Cranial software. Endoscopic dissection was then carried out on a cadaver to assess surgical viability.ResultsWe found that the distances from the posterior maxillary wall to the foramen ovale and from the anterior nasal spine to the foramen ovale were statistically significantly larger in men than women. The distance from the base of the lateral pterygoid plate to the foramen ovale, and the angle between the foramen ovale, the anterior nasal spine and the sphenoid rostrum, were constant between the sexes. The importance of the lateral pterygoid plate in locating the foramen ovale was demonstrated.ConclusionWith the increasing popularity of image guidance and assisted navigation in endoscopic surgery, these findings increase anatomico-radiological understanding of the surgical approach investigated.

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