CT anatomy of pterygopalatine fossa and its communications: a pictorial review

Comput Med Imaging Graph. 2003 Nov-Dec;27(6):481-7. doi: 10.1016/s0895-6111(03)00038-7.

Abstract

In this article, we present a pictorial review computed tomography (CT) anatomy of pterygopalatine fossa and its communications. Since it represents a major pathway for spread of inflammatory or neoplastic disease between the various compartments, being familiar with the high resolution CT appearance of pterygopalatine fossa and its communications is necessary in selected cases. The diagnostic difficulties in determining the intercompartmental spread is discussed.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Maxilla / diagnostic imaging*
  • Maxillary Sinus / diagnostic imaging
  • Sphenoid Bone / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*