Localization of Trochlear Spine & Fovea in Human Skulls

Abstract

Introduction: Many otolaryngologist and the orbital surgeons have been devoted to finding a better way to achieve optimal outcome in fields of the paranasal sinuses and surgery on medial orbital wall. This could be achieved when the surgeon gives sufficient consideration to orbital anatomy. The cartilaginous pulley of superior oblique muscle is vulnerable during the operations on frontoethmoidal sinus. This pulley passes through an anatomical landmark called trochlear fovea and spine

Aims & Objectives: To describe proper location of trochlear fovea and spine by using the measurements of frontal and sagittal plane.

Place and duration of study: The study was conducted at King Edward Medical University, Lahore in 2020 on 61 dry skulls.

Material & Methods: Four measurements were taken in frontal plane using two lines passing at right angle through supra orbital notch and fronto zygomatic suture while in sagittal plane the distance of fovea/spine was measured from orbital margin anteriorly and optic canal posteriorly.

Results: The distance of fovea and spine from the lines along supra orbital notch and fronto zygomatic suture was 7.22 ± 0.93mm and 6.14 ± 0.83mm respectively. It was 3.77 ± 0.73mm behind the margin and 38.22 ± 2.98mm in front of optic canal.

Conclusion: To prevent unwanted injury to superior oblique pulley surgeons should know the topographic location and variation of fovea and spine so that the postoperative diplopia could be prevented while approaching the paranasal sinuses and surgery on medial orbital wall.