Morphometric Variations of Jugular Foramen in Pakistani Population: A Comparative Analysis with Clinical Implications

Background: The jugular foramen, an important structure at the base of the skull, transmits several vital neurovascular elements, including the internal jugular vein, cranial nerves IX, X, XI, meningeal branches of ascending pharyngeal artery and occipital artery, and the inferior petrosal sinus. Objective: This study aims to conduct a comprehensive morphometric analysis of the jugular foramen in Pakistani skulls to highlight any population-specific variations and their potential clinical implications. Methods: Forty-eight dry, undamaged skulls were observed for the parameters related to jugular foramen on right and left sides. Parameters were measured with the help of digital vernier caliper and measuring scale and values were noted in mm and cm. Data was entered into SPSS ver. 26. After checking normality, data analysis was done by Chi-square test, Independent Samples t-test and Mann Whitney-U test. Results: Statistical analysis revealed greater distance between intrajugular process (peak) of temporal bone and jugular foramen on the right side (p value = 0.02) and increase in width of right sigmoid sinus at the posterior margin of jugular foramen (p value < 0.001). Rest of the parameters showed insignificant results. Conclusion: Right-sided parameters related to jugular foramen showed significant difference from left side highlighting racial differences in skulls of Pakistani population. This can have possible clinical implications for local neurosurgeons.