Volume :

3

Issue :

2

Abstract :

OBJECTIVE Evaluation of the measurements of the foramen magnum in male and females skulls of Indian origin as well as to observe the variations in its shape INTRODUCTION The foramen magnum is the large opening located in the occipital bone of skull. The dimensions of the foramen magnum are greater in males than in females. It is used to determine sex of skeleton in the medicolegal conditions such as explosions, aircraft accidents and war injuries. Dimensions and its variations are important in dealing with different neurosurgical conditions and surgeries. MATERIALS AND METHODS This descriptive study was performed on fifty five (n=55) dry adult human skulls on following parameters. 1) Antero posterior diameter, 2) Transverse Diameter, 3) Shape of the foramen. Procedure: The parameters and shapes were carefully inspected and noted with proper illumination by single observer in uniform manner on a work sheet. Descriptive Statistics, Student’s t test and correlation between the groups were analysed for statistical significance at α< 0.05. RESULT In males the mean Sagittal and transverse diameter was 34.72±2.95 and 28.4±2.37 with correlation coefficient of r=0.858. In females it was 33.21±3.25 and 27.71±2.6 with correlation coefficient of r=0.899. The scatter diagram revealed a linear form, positive relationship. Results were presented with tables and scatter plots. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND CONCLUSION The dimensions of foramen magnum are not constant between male and females, and between different populations. The knowledge on the dimension, shape with its normality and laterality is essential for determination of sex in forensic science, diagnostic and planning and conducting neurosurgical procedures at cranio-vertebral junction with effective management, better result and prognosis.