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Key Features of the Sphenoid Bone

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Terms in this set (12)

  • Sphenoid bone
    A complex bone at the base of the skull that helps form the floor of the cranium and the orbits.
  • Optic canal
    A passage in the sphenoid bone that allows the optic nerve and ophthalmic artery to enter the orbit.
  • Sella turcica
    A saddle-shaped depression on the sphenoid bone that houses the pituitary gland.
  • Superior orbital fissure
    A slit-like opening in the sphenoid bone that transmits cranial nerves III, IV, V1, and VI into the orbit.
  • Inferior orbital fissure
    An opening between the sphenoid and maxilla bones that allows passage of nerves and vessels to the orbit.
  • Pterygoid process
    A downward projection of the sphenoid bone that serves as an attachment for muscles of mastication.
  • Lesser wing of sphenoid
    A smaller, triangular wing of the sphenoid bone that forms part of the anterior cranial fossa and the orbit.
  • Greater wing of sphenoid
    A larger wing of the sphenoid bone that contributes to the middle cranial fossa and the lateral wall of the skull.
  • Foramen rotundum
    An opening in the sphenoid bone transmitting the maxillary nerve (V2) from the trigeminal nerve.
  • Foramen ovale
    A large oval opening in the sphenoid bone that allows passage of the mandibular nerve (V3) and accessory vessels.
  • Foramen spinosum
    A small foramen in the sphenoid bone transmitting the middle meningeal artery and vein.
  • Foramen lacerum
    A jagged opening at the base of the skull, mostly filled with cartilage, allowing passage of small vessels and nerves.