A comparative analysis of the CP and CG using 2D and 3D visualisation approaches

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Cranial base structures like the cribriform plate (CP), olfactory foramina, and Crista Galli are crucial for olfactory function and brain support.
• Assessing the detailed morphology and density of these small bony structures presents challenges with traditional imaging techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate structural variations in the CP, olfactory foramina, and Crista Galli.
• To compare the efficacy of 2D and 3D imaging techniques in measuring these cranial base structures.
• To examine the correlation between the CP and Crista Galli dimensions for potential clinical applications.

Main Methods:

• Utilized computed tomography (CT) to acquire 3D imaging data from anatomical samples.
• Performed comparative measurements of surface area and dimensions for the CP and Crista Galli using both 2D and 3D imaging techniques.
• Analyzed the statistical correlation between the measured parameters.

Main Results:

• 3D imaging yielded significantly larger surface area measurements for the CP (up to 355.51 mm²) compared to 2D imaging (up to 239.54 mm²).
• Crista Galli dimensions showed significant variation (length: 15–26 mm, height: 5–18 mm, width: 2–7 mm), with 3D surface area ranging from 130–390 mm².
• A significant positive correlation (p=0.001) was observed between the CP surface area and Crista Galli length when using 3D imaging.

Conclusions:

• 3D imaging provides more accurate and comprehensive measurements of the CP and Crista Galli compared to 2D methods.
• The observed correlation between CP and Crista Galli dimensions suggests a potential functional relationship, possibly for trauma support.
• Findings indicate that 3D CT imaging can enhance diagnostic capabilities for clinicians evaluating these cranial base structures.