Anatomical and Clinical Relevance of the Thyroid Foramen

Abstract

Objective: The thyroid foramen (TF) is an opening on the lamina of the thyroid cartilage. It may be located on the posterosuperiorpart of the lamina or below the superior tubercle. The aim of the present study was to determine the incidence of the foramen in anadult Turkish population and the morphometry, topography, and structures within it, thereby aiding surgeons working in this area.Methods: In 57 formalin-fixed cadaveric laryngeal specimens, 113 (56 right and 57 left) sides were dissected using a surgical microscope.Results: The TF was observed in 6 out of 57 (10.5%) specimens. It was bilateral in 3 (5.3%) specimens; thus, it was observed in 9sides. It was located at (33.3%) or posterior to (66.7%) the oblique line and below the superior tubercle. It was crossed by only anerve in 2 (22.2%) left sides, an artery with a vein in 2 (22.2%) sides, or a neurovascular bundle in 5 (55.6%) sides.Conclusion: The TF is a variation located on the lamina of the thyroid cartilage with an incidence of 2% to 57% in adults. Neurovascularstructures can pass through it. It is important in two aspects: surgical exposure and spread of laryngeal tumors.