Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
The foramen spinosum is a small, round opening located in the sphenoid bone at the base of the human skull. It allows for the passage of the middle meningeal artery, vein, and meningeal branches of the mandibular nerve.
A complex bone located at the base of the skull that houses important foramina such as the foramen spinosum.
Middle Meningeal Artery: An artery that passes through the foramen spinosum to supply blood to the dura mater and cranial structures.
Dura Mater: The tough outer layer of membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, receiving blood supply from structures passing through foramina like the foramen spinosum