This groove for the internal carotid artery and cavernous sinus twists along the lateral side of the sella turcica from anterior to posterior where it deepens as it approaches the apex of the temporal bone.

Sulcus is Latin for groove. Carotid pertains to the internal carotid artery that runs through the groove. The term carotid derives from the Greek karos or karoun meaning a deep sleep or to stupefy. This relates to the important oxygen supply carried by this vessel to the brain. If this supply is interrupted the individual faints or falls into a stupor.

Sulcus caroticus

Sillon carotidien