Jugular tubercle

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Jugular Tubercle

The Jugular Tubercle is a bony prominence located in the human skull. It is found on the occipital bone, which forms the back and base of the skull. The jugular tubercle is an important anatomical landmark as it is located near the foramen magnum, the large opening at the base of the skull through which the spinal cord passes.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "jugular" is derived from the Latin word "jugulum" which means throat or neck. The term "tubercle" is derived from the Latin word "tuberculum" which means a small swelling or lump. Thus, the jugular tubercle refers to a small lump in the region of the neck.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The jugular tubercle is located on the occipital bone, on either side of the foramen magnum. It is situated above the hypoglossal canal and is lateral to the occipital condyle. The jugular tubercle is an important landmark in neurosurgery as it is used to locate the transverse sinus and the sigmoid sinus, two major venous sinuses of the brain.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The jugular tubercle is an important landmark in neurosurgery. It is used to locate the transverse sinus and the sigmoid sinus during surgical procedures. The jugular tubercle can also be used to locate the hypoglossal canal, which transmits the hypoglossal nerve, a cranial nerve that controls tongue movements.

Related Terms[edit | edit source]

Jugular tubercle Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD