Sphenopetrosal fissure
Fissura sphenopetrosa
- Synonym: Petrosphenoidal fissure
- Related terms: Petrosphenoidal fissure; Sphenopetrosal fissure
Definition
The sphenopetrosal fissure is a narrow gap situated between the greater wing of sphenoid bone and the petrous portion of the temporal bone. This fissure can be found in the middle cranial fossa, directly behind the foramen ovale, and may constitute part of the edge of the foramen lacerum.
Occasionally, the lesser petrosal nerve, which initially travels in a medial direction on the front surface of the petrous part of the temporal bone, may go through the sphenopetrosal fissure instead of using the foramen ovale. This allows it to reach the otic ganglion located in the infratemporal fossa.
References
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Text written by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2024 IMAIOS.
Strandring, S. (2016). ‘Chapter 32: Infratemporal and pterygopalatine fossae and temporomandibular joint’ in Gray’s anatomy the anatomical basis of clinical practice. (41st ed.) New York: Elsevier, pp. 552.
