Gulnara Kerimzade, Nariman Movsumov
Experimed - 2025;15(2):176-182
Objective: This study examined how the stylomastoid foramen (SMF) relates anatomically to the mastoid process apex, analyzing variations by cranial type (brachy-, meso-, dolichocranic) and age groups, aiming to guide facial nerve blocks and surgical access. Materials and Methods: Researchers measured the distance from the SMF left to the mastoid apex and the alpha-angle between SMF axis and the Frankfurt horizontal plane in 159 dry human skulls, categorized by the cephalic index and six age brackets. Results: Significant differences were found across cranial types and age groups. Dolichocranic skulls exhibited the longest SMF-apex distance, while brachycranic skulls had the deepest SMF position and largest alpha-angle. The middle-age groups and dolichocranic types displayed lower alpha-angles, indicating morphological shifts with age and skull shape. Conclusion: The mastoid apex is a reliable landmark for locating the SMF, but its spatial relationship varies with cranial morphology and age. These insights may improve the accuracy of facial nerve blockade and reduce risks during parotid or mastoid surgery.
