ABSTRACT

Aim:

The objective of this study is to define the exact localization of middle meningeal artery and its branches on the inner side of the skull in reference to easily definable bony landmarks in order to contribute to neurosurgical applications.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted on 10 cadaveric heads fixed with 10% formaldehyde in Ankara University School of Medicine, Department of Anatomy. The scalp and all the muscular and connective tissue were dissected and removed. The bones of the skull were also removed except the cranial sutures and important morphometric landmarks. The localization of middle meningeal artery and its branches were measured in reference to certain bony landmarks. The measurements were done by a digital caliper and the mean values were calculated.

Results:

The results of the measurements were evaluated bilaterally in order to localize the middle meningeal artery (Mma) and its branches by taking the zygomatic arch (Za) as a reference point. Accordingly, the following is found: Mma (point A)-Za (depth): 1.88 cm on the right side, 2.19 cm on the left side, Mma (point A)-Za (anterior border): 2.71 cm on the right side, 2.52 cm on the left side, Mma (point A)-Za (posterior border): 2.46 cm on the right side, 2.82 cm on the left side, Mma (point B)-Za (height): 1.18 cm on the right side, 1.36 cm on the left side.

Conclusion:

The results of this study will help to estimate the exact localization of the middle meningeal artery and its branches before the operation. This may also help to decrease the complications related with the arterial injury and may also help to plan the treatment of artery derived clinical conditions.