Morphometric Study of the Mastoid Process and Notch in Dry Human Skulls

Abstract

Introduction: Mastoid process is a pyramidal bony projection . It is located in the posterior inferior region of the temporal bone. Mastoid notch is on the medial side of the mastoid process. Clinical significance causing infection of the middle ear could spread to the mastoid area causing mastoiditis.  The aim of the study is to determine the morphometric and morphological analysis of mastoid process and mastoid notch in dry human skull and their clinical implication. Materials and Methods: The present study was taken from the department of Anatomy in Saveetha Dental College and Hospital by taking 72 dry human skulls. Digital vernier caliper was used to measure the mastoid process and mastoid notch of different parameters. The data was measured and analyzed statistically, using paired sample ‘t’ tests. Results: The present study shows 0.641 significance in the right and left length of the mastoid process which is not significant. Right breadth and left breadth of the mastoid process of 0.007 and mastoid notch of right and left length 0.00 are significant. Conclusion: It concludes that the mastoid process and mastoid notch have varied significant differences in the dry human skulls. This study will be helpful in mastoid surgeries.