Sella turcica

Sella turcica

Definition

The upper surface of the body of sphenoid bone is shaped like a Turkish saddle. This area is called the sella turcica. It has a raised anterior border known as the tuberculum sellae, a raised posterior border called the dorsum sellae, and a low area in the center called the hypophyseal fossa (a.k.a. pituitary fossa). Tuberculum sellae–the raised anterior border–separates the hypophyseal fossa from the suprachiasmatic sulcus in front.

The pituitary gland, an important part of your body’s endocrine system, sits in the hypophyseal fossa. It is covered by a protective layer called the diaphragma sellae, which attaches to the anterior and posterior borders of the sella turcica. This layer has an opening for the stalk of the pituitary gland to go through. Notably, on both sides of the hypophyseal fossa, you will find the cavernous sinuses.

It's also worth noting that the dorsum sellae at the back merges with the basilar part of the occipital bone, creating a sloped bony area known as the clivus. This extends from the dorsum sellae to the front edge of the foramen magnum. It's part of the posterior cranial fossa and provides a support surface for the brainstem against this bony clivus area.

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Text written by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2024 IMAIOS.

  • Standring, S. (2016). ‘Chapter 28: Intracranial region’ in Gray’s anatomy: the anatomical basis of clinical practice. (41st ed.) New York NY: Elsevier, pp. 431-432.


Comparative anatomy in animals

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