Greater Wing Of The Sphenoid, Anatomy

Description

Greater wing of the sphenoid dominates the lateral aspect of the cranial base, forming a broad, curved plate that spans from the body of the sphenoid laterally toward the frontal, parietal, temporal, and zygomatic bones. Its cerebral surface contributes to the middle cranial fossa, while the orbital surface helps complete the posterolateral wall of the orbit at the level of the superior orbital fissure. Along the infratemporal surface, the greater wing presents key apertures, including the foramen rotundum (anteromedial), foramen ovale (posterolateral to rotundum), and foramen spinosum (posterolateral to ovale), all arranged in a compact field just medial to the root of the lateral pterygoid region. Small details matter here. Clinically, the greater wing is a frequent corridor and a frequent casualty: fractures of the sphenoid at the lateral skull base can involve the foramina and threaten the maxillary nerve (V2) at foramen rotundum, the mandibular nerve (V3) at foramen ovale, and the middle meningeal artery at foramen spinosum, a classic association with epidural hematoma. The fixed perspective supports teaching of foraminal relationships that guide percutaneous approaches for trigeminal neuralgia targeting V3 through foramen ovale, where a few millimeters of trajectory can separate safe cannulation from vascular or intracranial complications. Surface curvature and crisp bony margins also help orient learners between the temporal fossa laterally and the intracranial floor medially. Use this illustration in head and neck anatomy labs, neurosurgery and maxillofacial surgery teaching files, and radiology education when correlating CT skull base windows with named foramina and sutural landmarks. It also fits atlas plates and exam preparation resources focused on the middle cranial fossa and skull base exits of cranial nerves. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.