Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 22, 2026

Analysis of Craniomaxillofacial Malformations in Mice Using Three-dimensional Microcomputed Tomography
Published on: January 17, 2025
Morphometric Analysis of the Middle Clinoid Process Using Maxillofacial Computed Tomography Scans
Christopher Miller1, Roukoz Chamoun1, David Beahm2
1Department of Neurosurgery, The Uni-versity of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, Kansas.
This study analyzed middle clinoid process (MCP) anatomy in 150 CT scans, finding variations in prevalence and dimensions. Understanding these anatomical details is vital for safe endoscopic skull base surgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Anatomy
- Radiology
Background:
- Interest in sellar and parasellar anatomy has increased due to expanded endoscopic skull base surgery.
- The middle clinoid process (MCP) is a key anatomical structure impacting surgical exposure in this region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the anatomical variations of the middle clinoid process (MCP) in the general population.
- To provide quantitative data on MCP morphology using computed tomography (CT) scans.
Main Methods:
- Reviewed 150 maxillofacial CT scans of adult patients without intracranial or nasal pathology.
- Measured MCP diameter, length, angulation, and location in axial and sagittal planes.
Main Results:
- MCP prevalence was 30.7% in males and 42.7% in females.
- 41.8% of MCPs were ring-forming and 76.4% were pneumatized.
- Significant differences in prevalence and dimensions were noted across racial and gender groups.
Conclusions:
- Detailed knowledge of MCP anatomy is essential for safe and effective endoscopic skull base procedures.
- This study offers quantitative anatomical characterization of the MCP in the U.S. population, including demographic analysis.
More Related Videos
08:03Midface Hypoplasia and Cranial Base Morphology in Syndromic Craniosynostosis: A Comparative Analysis Study Using a Predictive Regression Model
Published on: November 4, 2025
10:23Author Spotlight: Three-Dimensional Cephalometric Landmark Annotation Demonstration on Human Cone Beam Computed Tomography Scans
Published on: September 8, 2023
Related Concept Videos
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
Cranial Bones: Lateral View
The temporal bone forms the lower lateral side of the skull. The temporal bone is subdivided into several regions. The flattened upper portion is the squamous portion of the temporal bone. Below this area and projecting anteriorly is the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, which forms the posterior portion of the zygomatic arch. Posteriorly is the mastoid portion of the temporal bone. Projecting...
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Cranial Bones: Superior and Posterior View
The frontal bone is the single bone that forms the forehead. At its anterior midline, between the eyebrows, there is a slight depression called the glabella. The frontal bone also forms the supraorbital margin of the orbit. Near the middle of this margin is the supraorbital foramen, the opening that provides passage for a sensory nerve to the forehead. The frontal bone is thickened just above each supraorbital margin,...