Zygomaticofacial, Zygomaticoorbital, and Zygomaticotemporal Foramina

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the anatomical and morphometric characteristics of the main zygomaticofacial (ZFF), zygomaticoorbital (ZOF), and zygomaticotemporal (ZTF) foramina in Brazilian dry skulls. 61, 69, and 42 skulls for ZFF, ZOF, and ZTF were evaluated by a single calibrated examiner for format, transverse and vertical diameters, and distances from the foramina to anatomical landmarks. Paired t test, Wilcoxon test, Pearson and Spearman correlations were used. Circular outline was the predominant format for ZFF and ZTF, while oval format was the most frequent for ZOF. Median distances from ZFF to frontozygomatic and zygomaticomaxillary sutures were higher on right and left sides of the skulls, respectively (P < 0.005). Mean ZOF transverse diameter was significantly higher on the right sides of the skulls and presented positive correlation between sides (P < 0.05). No differences were observed for mean vertical diameter and distance from the ZOF to the inferolateral angle of the orbit (P > 0.05). No significant difference was found for distance from the ZTF to zygomatic arch between sides (P > 0.05), although there was a positive correlation (P < 0.05). Significant differences were found when analyzing the anatomical and morphometric aspects of ZFF, ZOF, and ZTF.