In anatomy, a foramen ( pl.

Results may indicate lesion to the spinal cord nerve root, or intervertebral disc herniation pressing on the spinal nerve roots.

Two nerves are typically of concern, and are found in duplicate (one left and one right) 1. the inferior alveolar nerve, which enters the mandible at the mandibular foramen and exits the mandible at the sides of the chin from the mental foramen.

The most common such abnormality is patent foramen ovale, occurring in about 25 of the adult population, but here the defect functions as a valve which is normally closed, because pressure is slightly higher in the left side of the heart.