An integrative anatomical evaluation of Greater palatine foramen in human skull base in north Indian population with clinical implications.

Background: Greater palatine foramen is located in posterior part of hard palate. Knowledge of anatomical limitations of greater palatine foramen are crucial for injecting anaesthetic drugs along greater palatine nerve and for maxillary nerve block. Aim: Aim of the study was to provide anatomical data regarding number, possible shape, variability in location of greater palatine foramen and its relation to nearby landmarks. Material and methods: Study included 100 dry human skulls that assessed 200 greater palatine foramina. Various parameters were measured by using digital Vernier caliper. Results: Shape of GPF was oval in 57% on right & 51% on left side. It was directed anteromedial in 56% & 44% on right & left sides. Its position was at 3rd molar in 49% on right and 56% on left side. Mean of anteroposterior, transverse diameters & penetrability were 4.96mm, 3.37mm & 13.07mm on right and 4.78mm, 3.17mm & 12.15mm on left side respectively. Mean of distance between GPF of two sides was 31.23mm. The mean of distance of GPF from IF, IPS and PPB were 38.76, 15.58mm and 4.68mm on right side and 38.46mm, 15.33mm and 4.41mm on left side respectively. Conclusion: All metric observations were more on right as compared with left side. Present study will provide the required baseline data for various dental procedures and development of tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]