A Unique Foramen Magnum with a Posterior Notch

Kurume Med J. 2023 Feb 6;67(4):185-188. doi: 10.2739/kurumemedj.MS674003. Epub 2022 Nov 30.

Abstract

The foramen magnum is an important structure of the skull base. A unique foramen magnum with posterior notching was found in an adult male skull, around 60 years old at death. The posterior notch was roughly V-shaped and resulted in posterior elongation of the foramen magnum. Variants such as described herein should be kept in mind when interpreting radiological imaging or operating on patients.

Keywords: anatomy; embryology; foramen magnum; skull base; spinal cord.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Foramen Magnum* / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Skull*