skip to main content

Foramen Spinosum — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyAnatomy (Head & Neck)Foramen SpinosumMFDS Part 1

Which foramen transmits the middle meningeal artery into the skull?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: DForamen spinosum

The correct answer is **A, foramen spinosum**. The middle meningeal artery usually arises from the maxillary artery and enters the middle cranial fossa through the foramen spinosum. It then runs between the dura mater and the inner surface of the skull; injury near the pterion may produce an extradural haematoma. The foramen ovale principally transmits the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve, whereas the foramen rotundum transmits its maxillary division. The foramen lacerum is largely filled with fibrocartilage in life, with the internal carotid artery passing across its superior aspect rather than through it. The jugular foramen transmits cranial nerves IX, X and XI and the venous outflow that continues as the internal jugular vein.

Reference: Rasmussen JM, Weisbrod LJ, Sattur MG, Borg N. Middle Meningeal Artery Arising From the Basilar Artery: A Case Report and Review of a Rare Anatomic Variant. Neurosurgery Practice. 2026;7(3):e000258. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42282953/