Foramen thyroideum: a comparative study in embryos, fetuses, and adults.

León, X; Maranillo, E; Mirapeix, R M; Quer, M; Sañudo, J R · Laryngoscope · 1997

cross_sectional · Level IV

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Abstract

The incidence and characteristics of foramen thyroideum (FT) in embryonic and/or fetal larynges have not been established. In the present study, 90 adult larynges and 53 embryonic-fetal larynges were studied. The incidence of FT during the embryonic-fetal period (57%) was statistically different from the adult period (31%) (P = 0.005). All the FT found in the adult period contained vessels and/or nerves, while in the embryonic and fetal period only 63% presented neurovascular elements (P < 0.001). The origin of FT in the embryonic period and its persistence during adult life is discussed.

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