Structure/Morphology
The sphenoid sinuses are two large irregular cavities within the sphenoid bone separated by a septum.
Related parts of the anatomy
Key Features/Anatomical Relations
The sphenoid sinuses open into the corresponding sphenoethmoidal recesses. The sinuses are located inferior to the sella turcica, which houses the pituitary gland, and medial to the cavernous sinuses and internal carotid arteries
Function
The sphenoid sinuses contribute to adding resonance to the voice and decreasing the overall weight of the skull.
List of Clinical Correlates
- Sinusitis
- Endoscopic transsphenoidal surgical approach to the pituitary gland
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Sphenoidal Sinus
The optic strut is the bony floor of the optic canal that connects the anterior clinoid process to the lateral sphenoid sinus and separates the optic canal from the superior orbital fissure inferiorly.
