Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small opening (on both the right and left sides) that connects the third ventricle in the diencephalon with the lateral ventricle in the cerebral hemisphere: The foramen of Monro is an anatomical structure in the brain, serving as a channel for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow between specific brain ventricles.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Obstruction of the foramen of Monro can lead to hydrocephalus.
  • The surgeon carefully navigated the endoscope through the foramen of Monro.
  • The MRI scan showed a normal, patent foramen of Monro.

Advanced Usage

• "Bilateral foramina of Monro": Refers to the pair of these openings, one on each side of the brain's midline.
  • The cyst was obstructing both bilateral foramina of Monro.

Variants and Related Words

• Interventricular foramen: A synonymous anatomical term for the foramen of Monro.
• Foramen (noun): A general term for a natural opening or passage, especially in a bone or between body cavities.

Synonyms

• Interventricular foramen: The direct anatomical synonym.

Notes on Meaning

This term has a single, specific meaning in neuroanatomy. It is named after the Scottish physician Alexander Monro (Secundus). It is not used in idiomatic or general language contexts.

Noun

1. the small opening (on both the right and left sides) that connects the third ventricle in the diencephalon with the lateral ventricle in the cerebral hemisphere