This is a canal that traverses the pterygoid process of the sphenoid. Entering the bone posteriorly between the lingula and tubercle, it courses anteriorly to exit the triangular anterior surface of the pterygoid process in the pterygopalatine fossa.

Pterygoid comes from the Greek pteryx meaning wing and eidos for shape. Canal denotes a channel or passageway through bone. Sometimes called a meatus.

Canalis pterygoideus

Canal ptérygoïdien