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Is the Stability of a Standard Stable Reference Stable Enough?
Umarevathi Gopalakrishnan1, Lodd Mahendra2
1Department of Orthodontics, Sri Venkateswara Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Phone: +91 9841289794,
The anterior contour of the sella turcica, long considered immutable, may not be a stable reference for craniofacial growth studies. Research suggests pituitary gland influences its size and shape, challenging established principles.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics and craniofacial development
- Endocrinology and skeletal morphology
Background:
- The anterior contour of the sella turcica is traditionally used as a stable reference in craniofacial growth analysis.
- This practice is based on the work of Björk and Skieller, widely adopted for decades.
Purpose of the Study:
- To question the long-held assumption of the anterior contour of the sella turcica's immutability.
- To explore the intricate relationship between the pituitary gland and the sella turcica's morphology and size.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies on pituitary gland growth and diseases.
- Analysis of literature concerning the influence of pituitary gland on sella turcica characteristics.
- Examination of the stability of the anterior contour of the sella turcica as a reference parameter.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests the anterior contour of the sella turcica is not a stable parameter.
- Pituitary gland growth and disease significantly impact sella turcica size and morphology.
- The assumption of immutability may lead to overlooking crucial scientific details.
Conclusions:
- The anterior contour of the sella turcica should not be dogmatically accepted as immutable.
- Further research is needed to understand the dynamic relationship between the pituitary gland and sella turcica.
- Re-evaluation of craniofacial growth studies using the sella turcica as a reference is warranted.
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