Retrobullar recess

Last revised by Craig Hacking on 15 Feb 2024

The retrobullar recess is a small potential opening (cleft) rather than an actual air cell located superior and posterior to the ethmoid bulla, separating it from the skull base and basal lamella. The ethmoid bulla usually opens posteriorly in the retrobullar recess.

Gross anatomy

Boundaries
  • anterior: posterior wall of the ethmoid bulla

  • posterior: basal lamella

  • superior: skull base

  • lateral: lamina papyracea

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.