Background and Aim The specific anatomical triangles around the cavernous sinus are frequently explored areas in neurosurgeries and thus require a methodical approach keeping in mind the possibility of variational anatomy and morphometric differences. One of the most inconsistent triangles is the Glasscock’s (posterolateral) triangle (GT) in the middle cranial fossa.
Materials and Methods The present study was undertaken on 26 skull bases of the middle cranial fossa from cadavers and 42 dry adult skulls from the departmental collection to analyze parameters of the GT pertinent to the horizontal intrapetrosal segment of the internal carotid artery. The measurements of all sides of the GT were done and the mean surface area was calculated using Heron’s formula. The findings of the study were compared with earlier works where other methods of investigation were employed, such as, dry bones/computed tomography scans, cadaveric studies.
Observations The GT in the present study had a mean surface area of 43 mm2. The study presented with variable morphological and morphometric data as compared with earlier studies. The scientific attribute to the differences in parameters is presumably relevant to the racial differences as well as the pathophysiological condition of the subject.
Conclusions Surgical interventions to the base of the skull have evolved enormously over the years. Earlier studies have described the triangle on cadaveric specimen. We have attempted to revisit the area in cadaveric as well as dry skull base. Flawless information of the area under surgery augments safer procedures and reduction in the damage to brain tissue as well as the cranial nerves. The putative clinical implications of the present study are useful in helping in high precision surgeries and enhanced patient care. The highly variable GT needs to be understood properly for a desired culmination in ICA exposure in the intrapetrosal segment.