Greater Sphenoid Wing Showing Its Infratemporal Surface, Lateral View

Description

Greater wing of the sphenoid dominates the lateral cranial base in this illustration, with attention centered on the infratemporal surface inferior to the infratemporal crest (horizontal crest). Superior to that crest, the temporal surface faces the temporal fossa, while the infratemporal surface turns inferiorly toward the infratemporal fossa. Key foramina are placed on the infratemporal aspect: the foramen ovale lies anteromedial to the smaller foramen spinosum, and the sphenoid spine projects posterolaterally near the posterior margin of the greater wing. Borders with the squamous temporal bone and the posterior root of the zygomatic process are implied along the lateral cranial wall, helping orient the greater wing within the skull base. Surgeons and educators come back to this surface because it is the bony “map” for neurovascular transit between the cranial cavity and the infratemporal fossa, and the relationships are easy to lose when teaching from a generalized skull. The foramen ovale transmits the mandibular nerve (V3) and the accessory meningeal artery, a corridor relevant to percutaneous procedures for trigeminal neuralgia and to skull base tumor spread along V3. Foramen spinosum marks entry of the middle meningeal artery, a practical landmark when discussing epidural hematoma and when reviewing why fractures near the pterion can be clinically consequential. Orientation is unambiguous. The fixed lateral perspective emphasizes surface topology over internal sinus anatomy, so foraminal position relative to the infratemporal crest reads at a glance. Use this illustration in head and neck anatomy, dental anatomy, and neurosurgical skull base teaching to support lectures on the infratemporal fossa, trigeminal nerve branches, and middle meningeal artery anatomy. It also fits atlases and exam-prep materials that require precise identification of the foramen ovale, foramen spinosum, and sphenoid spine from a lateral cranial base viewpoint. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.