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Does the mendosal suture exist in the adult?
R Shane Tubbs1, E George Salter, W Jerry Oakes
1Section of Pediatric Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham and Children's Hospital, Birmingham, Alabama 35233, USA. rstubbs@uab.edu
Clinical Anatomy (New York, N.Y.)
|December 1, 2005
Summary
The mendosal suture, a childhood remnant, is present in 16% of adult skulls. This anatomical finding aids clinicians in avoiding misinterpretation of this skull feature.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Anthropology
- Craniometry
Background:
- The mendosal suture is a poorly documented anatomical structure.
- Variability exists in reports regarding its closure in childhood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and characteristics of the mendosal suture in adult human skulls.
- To provide anatomical data for clinical and academic reference.
Main Methods:
- Examination of 50 adult human skulls.
- Documentation of the presence, absence, and laterality of the mendosal suture.
- Measurement of suture length and description of its orientation.
Main Results:
- The mendosal suture was identified in 16% of the adult specimens.
- Bilateral sutures were observed in 6 specimens, and unilateral sutures in 2.
- Sutures were typically linear, approximating the superior nuchal line and oriented perpendicularly to the lambdoidal suture.
Conclusions:
- The mendosal suture persists into adulthood in a notable percentage of individuals.
- Understanding its typical morphology and location is crucial for accurate anatomical interpretation.
- This study contributes valuable data for anatomists and clinicians regarding this cranial suture.