Foramen rotundum

Definition

The foramen rotundum is a circular opening in the sphenoid bone of the skull that allows the passage of the maxillary branch of the trigeminal nerve (CN V2). It acts as a conduit for nerve signals between the brain and parts of the face.

Related terms

Sphenoid Bone:

A butterfly-shaped bone at the base of the skull that houses important foramina like the foramen rotundum.

Trigeminal Nerve:

The fifth cranial nerve responsible for sensory data (such as touch, pain, and temperature) from the face and head; it also supplies motor functions to various muscles.

Maxillary Nerve: The second branch of the trigeminal nerve that passes through the foramen rotundum, providing sensory innervation to parts of the face such as lower eyelid, upper lip, and cheek