A Study of Variations at the Base of the Skull in South Indian Population

The base of the skull is formed from highly irregular bones that develop in cartilages in a very complicated way. It supports the brain which is highly evolved in humans. It also forms a connecting link for other organs such as respiratory organs, gustatory organs etc. The cartilage centres appear in the base of skull during the second month in three areas [1]. Fifty skulls were studied. In the present study tubercle on the anterior margin of the foramen magnum was found in 2 skull, tubercle on the posterior margin of the foramen magnum was found in 1 skull, articular facet on the posterior margin of the foramen magnum was found in 2 skulls, Occipitilization of the atlas was found in 1 skull and elongated styloid (more than 45 mm) [2] process was found in 2 skulls. One has to be familiar with the anatomical features at the foramen magnum, in order to prevent damage to the neurovasular structures at the formamen magnum. Symptomatic abnormal elongation of styloid process is treated by surgical excision through intra oral or extra oral approaches. Further regional studies are required to know the causes for the abnormal elongation of styloid process, which may help us for better management of symptomatic cases.