Fontanelle Sphenoid

Wedge-shaped fontanel: description, characteristics and application

The wedge-shaped fontanel (lat. f. sphenoidalis, pna, bna; f. sphenoideus, jna) is an anatomical structure that is located deep in the head. It may also be called the “pterygoid fontanel” or “fontanel of the base of the skull.” The sphenoid fontanel is a bony fossa located at the base of the skull in the area of ​​the sphenoid bone.

Characteristics of the fontanel sphenoid

The wedge-shaped fontanel has the shape of a triangle and consists of two parts: lateral (side) and medial (middle). The lateral part of the sphenoid fontanel has a wedge shape and is the site of attachment of the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone, as well as the pterygoid process of the mandible. The medial part of the sphenoid fontanel is a pit in which the pituitary gland is located - the main endocrine gland of the body.

Application of the fontanelle sphenoid

The fontanel sphenoid is an important anatomical structure, but is rarely used as such in clinical practice. However, its medial part can be important when performing surgical operations on the pituitary gland, as well as in diagnosing diseases of this gland. For example, when studying the condition of the pituitary gland using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), doctors pay attention to the medial part of the sphenoid fontanel.

In conclusion, the fontanel sphenoid is an important anatomical structure that is located deep in the head. Although it is rarely used in clinical practice as such, its medial portion can be important in pituitary surgery and in diagnosing diseases of the gland.

The sphenoid sinus is a paired bone that not only performs a protective function, but also participates in the creation of the paranasal sinus. Thanks to it, the sinuses become larger and also strengthen the bone tissue in this area. In addition to this, it has a physiological significance: it promotes breathing