Identify the extent of the middle cranial fossa, noting the parts of the sphenoid bone you can see. The pituitary gland lodges in the sella turcica of the body of the sphenoid. Anteriorly lies the optic foramen of each side. Optic nerve and ophthalmic artery. The superior orbital fissure lies between the lesser and greater wings of the sphenoid.
Foramen rotundum transmits the maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve.
Foramen ovale transmits the mandibular division of the trigeminal. The middle meningeal vessels pass through foramen spinosum to supply the periosteum on the internal surface of the cranium. Observe how these vessels groove the bone. The posterior cranial fossa is defined superiorly by the tentorium . Identify the attachment of the tentorium along the superior ridge of the petrous part of the temporal bone.