Jugular foramen

Definition

The jugular foramen is a large opening in the base of the skull, situated between the temporal and occipital bones. It allows for the passage of the internal jugular vein and several cranial nerves.

Related terms

Internal Jugular Vein: A major vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the brain back to the heart.

Cranial Nerves:

Nerves that emerge directly from the brain (including the brainstem), involved in sensory and motor functions of the head and neck.

Occipital Bone:

The bone that forms the posterior portion of the skull, contributing to the cranial cavity's base where the jugular foramen is located