Growth Dynamic of the Dorsum Sellae in Fetuses

Abstract

Objective:To determine the dimension of the dorsum sellae (DS) in fetuses. Methods:Skull bases of 32 fetuses aged from 17 to 32 weeks were included in the work. The length of the DS at its superior border (DSL-SB) and the thickness of DS at its middle part (DST-ML) were measured. In addition, DS's height at its right lateral margin (DSH-RLB), at its left lateral margin (DSH-LLB), and at its middle part (DSH-ML) were measured. Results:DSL-SB, DSH-RLB, DSH-LLB, DSH-ML, and DST-ML were measured as 8.42 +/- 1.89, 2.67 +/- 0.68, 2.73 +/- 0.68, 2.48 +/- 0.75, and 2.00 +/- 0.50 mm, respectively. All parameters were statistically similar for both sexes (P>0.05). All parameters increased with advancing gestational weeks (P<0.001). Linear functions were calculated for DSL-SB (y=- 1.756 + 0.426 x age), DSH-RLB (y=- 1.072 + 0.156 x age), DSH-LLB (y=- 0.851 + 0.150 x age), DSH-ML (y=- 1.687 + 0.174 x age), and DST-ML (y=- 0.473 + 0.103 x age). Conclusion:In fetuses, DS size grows with age. The linear functions regarding DS-related parameters may be used to estimate its size.