Diaphragma sellae

Diaphragma sellae

  • Synonym: Sellar diaphragm
  • Related terms: Diaphragma sellae; Sellar diaphragm

Definition

Diaphragma sellae (sometimes considered as a forward extension of the tentorium cerebelli) is a double-layer of dura mater that covers the sella turcica. It forms a roof over the sella turcica and gets connected at its front edge to the tuberculum sellae (the front raised part of the sella turcica) and at its back edge to the dorsum sellae (the rear raised part of the sella turcica). The diaphragma sellae covers the pituitary gland located in the hypophyseal fossa. It has a small opening that allows the pituitary stalk (or infundibulum) to pass through and connect with the base of the brain. Additionally, the diaphragma sellae extends laterally to contribute to the walls of the cavernous sinuses on both sides. Its sensory innervation comes from the ophthalmic (V1) division of the trigeminal nerve.

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Text written by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2023 IMAIOS.

  • Shah, A. and Elsanafiry, M.S.M. Diaphragma sellae: Anatomical and surgical implication in surgery for pituitary adenomas–Highlighting contributions by Goel. (2018). Journal of Craniovertebral Junction & Spine, 9(3): pp.135.

  • Kekere, V. and Alsayouri, K. Anatomy, Head and Neck, Dura Mater. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545301/

  • Ghannam, J.Y. and Al Kharazi, K.A. Neuroanatomy, Cranial Meninges. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539882/

  • Snell, R.S. (2010). ‘Chapter 15: The meninges of the brain and the spinal cord’, in Clinical Neuroanatomy. (7th ed.) Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer Health/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, pp.427-444.


Comparative anatomy in animals

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