carotid canal

Introduction

A passage through the petrous part of the temporal bone. From its inferior edge, it passes upward, medially & forward to open posterior & superior to the site of the foramen lacerum.

It allows passage of the internal carotid artery & plexuses of veins & autonomic nerves.

More general terms

• anatomic canal

Additional terms

• foramen lacerum
• internal carotid artery (ICA)

Component of

• temporal bone