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The human skull base angle during the second trimester of gestation
A S Dimitriadis1, A Haritanti-Kouridou, K Antoniadis
1Department of Neuroradiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki, Greece.
Neuroradiology
|January 1, 1995
Summary
The skull base angle (SBA) significantly increases by approximately 27 degrees during the second trimester of gestation. This study details radiographic findings and changes in fetal skull base development.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Radiology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- The skull base angle (SBA) is a key indicator in craniofacial development.
- Understanding fetal skull base development is crucial for diagnosing congenital anomalies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To radiographically demonstrate and explain changes in the skull base angle (SBA) during the second trimester of gestation.
- To establish normative data for fetal SBA during this developmental period.
Main Methods:
- 26 human fetal heads (15-25 weeks gestational age) were examined using high-resolution computed tomography (CT) in sagittal and axial planes.
- Fetal specimens were preserved in 10% formalin.
- Sagittal tomograms were used to trace the skull base, defining the SBA using nasion, sella turcica, and the lowest part of the clivus.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in the skull base angle (SBA) was observed during the second trimester.
- The SBA increased by approximately 27 degrees between 15 and 25 weeks of gestation.
- These findings differ from previously reported measurements of fetal SBA.
Conclusions:
- The skull base angle undergoes a significant increase throughout the second trimester of gestation.
- High-resolution CT is effective for visualizing and measuring fetal skull base morphology.
- This study provides new data on fetal skull base development, highlighting significant changes during the second trimester.