Association Between Foramen Rotundum and Trigeminal Neuralgia in the Saudi Population: A Radiological Study

TL;DR

This study explores the link between the shape of the foramen rotundum and trigeminal neuralgia in a Saudi population using CT scans.

Contribution

The study identifies significant anatomical differences in the foramen rotundum between trigeminal neuralgia patients and controls in Saudi Arabia.

Findings

TN patients had narrower foramen rotundum measurements compared to controls, especially in females.

Right-sided foramen rotundum narrowing was observed, potentially correlating with right-sided pain in TN patients.

Variations in foramen rotundum shape and size were noted, with no bony spurs found in any participants.

Abstract

The trigeminal nerve is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the face, nasal and mouth cavities, and most of the scalp. Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a chronic facial pain disorder characterized by spontaneous paroxysmal pain throughout the distribution of the trigeminal nerve. This study investigated the morphological and morphometric variations of the foramen rotundum (FR) and its association with TN through a retrospective radiological analysis. A cohort of 97 participants from King Fahad University Hospital, Saudi Arabia, comprising 57 TN patients and 40 controls, underwent head CT scans for measurement and analysis. The study revealed significant differences in the FR morphology between TN patients and controls, particularly noting narrower FR measurements among TN individuals, especially in females. The right side demonstrated narrower FR dimensions, potentially correlating with the predominant side of pain in TN patients. While the presence of bony spurs was absent in all participants, variations in FR shape, size, and spatial positioning were observed and compared across genders and groups. These findings provide crucial insights into the potential anatomical factors contributing to TN, emphasizing the importance of understanding FR variations in clinical assessment and management of TN cases. Further research focusing on FR morphology and its clinical implications is recommended to enhance understanding and aid medical professionals in addressing TN-related concerns.

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