Analysis of the Asterion Morphology in Relation to Its Clinical Significance / Análisis de la Morfología del Asterion en Relación con su Importancia Clínica

SUMMARY: The asterion presents a significant anthropological marking and meeting point between three sutures. It is a surface landmark for the transverse-sigmoid venous sinus complex and is also a surgical landmark for access to the posterior cranial fossa, giving it clinical importance. The aim of this research was to analyze the shape of the asterion and to set the measurement methods that will determine distance between the asterion and surrounding features. The study sample, as a part of the Osteological collection of the Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine Novi Sad, consisted of 43 skulls. Morphometric analysis was related to the measurement of the defined parameters and descriptive analysis presented the classification of asterion in relation to the presence of sutural bones, as well as the determination of the position of the asterion according to the transverse-sigmoid venous complex. There was a statistically significant difference between male and female skulls for all the measured parameters. The results show that 34.88 % were type 1 (one or more sutural bones are present) and 65.12 % were type 2 asteria (no sutural bones are present). More frequent occurrence of asteria type 2 was seen on both, male and female skulls. The most frequent position of the asteria on both sides of the skull was in the transverse- sigmoid venous complex (76.92 % on the right side vs. 72.22 % on the left cranial side). Clinical significance of knowing the area of asterion is reflected in order to make the surgical, as well as diagnostic procedures, as successful as possible.

El asterion presenta una importante marca antropológica y punto de encuentro entre tres suturas. Es un punto de referencia de superficie para el complejo del seno venoso sigmoideo transverso y también es un punto de referencia quirúrgico para el acceso a la fosa craneal posterior, lo que le confiere importancia clínica. El objetivo de esta investigación fue analizar la forma del asterión y establecer los métodos de medición que determinarán la distancia entre el asterión y las características circundantes. La muestra del estudio, que forma parte de la colección osteológica del Departamento de Anatomía de la Facultad de Medicina de Novi Sad, estuvo compuesta por 43 cráneos. El análisis morfométrico se relacionó con la medición de los parámetros definidos y el análisis descriptivo presentó la clasificación del asterion en relación a la presencia de huesos suturales, así como la determinación de la posición del asterion según el complejo venoso transverso-sigmoideo. Hubo una diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre los cráneos masculinos y femeninos para todos los parámetros medidos. Los resultados muestran que el 34,88 % eran tipo 1 (hay uno o más huesos suturales presentes) y el 65,12 % eran asteria tipo 2 (no hay huesos suturales presentes). Se observó una aparición más frecuente de asteria tipo 2 en cráneos tanto masculinos como femeninos. La posición más frecuente de la asteria en ambos lados del cráneo fue en el complejo venoso sigmoideo transverso (76,92 % en el lado derecho vs. 72,22 % en el lado craneal izquierdo). La importancia clínica de conocer el área de asterion se refleja en que los procedimientos quirúrgicos y de diagnóstico tengan el mejor resultado posible.

Posterior fossa choroidplexus papilloma in the pediatric population: case series and literature review / Papiloma de plexo coroide na fossa posterior na população pediátrica: série de casos e revisão da literatura

Abstract Choroid plexus papillomas (CPPs) are rare benign neoplasms which are particularly uncommon in the posterior fossa in children. We herein present a case series of five patients treated at a tertiary care hospital. A comprehensive literature review was also carried out. The patients treated at the tertiary care hospital were aged between 4 and 16 years. Gross total resection (GTR) was initially achieved in two patients. All patients showed clinical improvement. Moreover, 27 articles published between 1975 and 2021 were selected for the literature review, totaling 46 patients; with the 5 patients previously described, the total sample was composed of 51 cases, With a mean age was 8.2 years. The lesions were located either in the fourth ventricle (65.3%) or the cerebellopontine angle (34.7%). Hydrocephalus was present preoperatively in 66.7% of the patients, and a permanent shunt was required in 31.6% of the cases. The GTR procedure was feasible in 64.5%, and 93.8% showed clinical improvement. For CPPs, GTR is the gold standard treatment and should be attempted whenever feasible, especially because the role of the adjuvant treatment remains controversial. Neuromonitoring is a valuable tool to achieve maximal safe resection. Hydrocephalus is common and must be recognized and promptly treated. Most patients will need a permanent shunt. Though there is still controversy on its efficacy, endoscopic third ventriculostomy is a safe procedure, and was the authors' first choice to treat hydrocephalus.

Resumo Os papilomas do plexo coroide (PPCs) são neoplasias benignas raras e, na população pediátrica, são particularmente incomuns na fossa posterior. Apresentamos uma série de casos de cinco pacientes atendidos em um hospital terciário. Além disso, foi realizada uma ampla revisão da literatura. Os pacientes atendidos no hospital terciário tinham entre 4 e 16 anos. Ressecção macroscópica total (RMT) foi inicialmente realizada em dois pacientes. Todos os pacientes apresentaram melhora clínica. Além disso, 27 artigos publicados entre 1975 e 2021 foram selecionados para a revisão da literatura, totalizando 46 pacientes. Somados à série de casos atuais, encontramos 51 pacientes, com média de idade de 8,2 anos. As lesões localizavam-se no quarto ventrículo (65,3%) ou no ângulo pontocerebelar (34,7%). Hidrocefalia estava presente no pré-operatório em 66,7% dos pacientes, e derivação ventricular permanente foi necessária em 31,6% dos casos. A RMT foi possível em 64,5%, e 93,8% tiveram melhora clínica. Para os CPPs, a RMT é o tratamento padrão-ouro e deve ser tentado sempre que possível, especialmente porque ainda existem controvérsias quanto ao papel do tratamento adjuvante. A neuromonitorização é uma ferramenta importante para se atingir a máxima ressecção segura. A hidrocefalia é comumente vista nesses pacientes e deve ser identificada e tratada. A maioria dos pacientes irá precisar de uma derivação permanente. Apesar de persistirem controvérsias sobre sua eficácia, a terceiro-ventriculostomia endoscópica foi a primeira escolha para tratar a hidrocefalia na experiência dos autores e é uma opção segura.

Values of the apparent diffusion coefficient in the differential diagnosis of tumors of the posterior fossa in the pediatric population of Colombia / Valores del coeficiente de difusión aparente en el diagnóstico diferencial de los tumores de la fosa posterior en población pediátrica de Colombia

Abstract Introduction: Posterior fossa tumors are common in the pediatric population and require adequate characterization by means of structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and advanced MRI techniques to achieve an appropriate therapeutic approach. Objectives: To determine the usefulness of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values for the differential diagnosis of posterior fossa tumors in the pediatric population treated at a reference hospital in Bogotá D.C., Colombia. Materials and methods: Diagnostic accuracy study carried out in 28 pediatric patients diagnosed with posterior fossa tumor between 2017 and 2019 at the Fundación Hospital de la Misericordia, a quaternary care institution. ADC values were measured and compared with histopathological diagnosis as gold standard, obtaining sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. Differences between medians were determined using the Kruskall-Wallis test. The p value between the quantitative ADC value and the gold standard was calculated using Pearson's chi-squared test, with a significance level of p<0.05. Results: The mean age of the participants was 83.9 months (SD=57 months), and 64.28% of them were boys. Medulloblastoma was the most frequent tumor (39.29%). For the diagnosis of medulloblastoma, an ADC value of 0.6210x10-3mm2/s was established, obtaining a sensitivity and specificity of 81.82% and 76.47%, respectively. For the diagnosis of pilocytic astrocytoma, an ADC of 1.03x10-3mm2/s was determined, with a sensitivity of 66.67% and a specificity of 89.40%. Conclusions: ADC value is useful to classify and differentiate posterior fossa tumors in the Colombian pediatric population, showing an inversely proportional relationship with the tumor grade.

Resumen Introducción. Los tumores de la fosa posterior son frecuentes en población pediátrica y requieren de una adecuada caracterización mediante resonancia magnética (RM) estructural y técnicas avanzadas de RM para lograr un enfoque terapéutico apropiado. Objetivo. Determinar la utilidad de los valores del coeficiente de difusión aparente (ADC cuantitativo) en el diagnóstico diferencial de los tumores de la fosa posterior en población pediátrica de un hospital de referencia en Bogotá D.C., Colombia. Materiales y métodos. Estudio de validez de prueba diagnóstica realizado en 28 pacientes pediátricos diagnosticados con tumor de fosa posterior entre 2017 y 2019 en la Fundación Hospital Pediátrico de la Misericordia, hospital de IV nivel de complejidad. Se midieron los valores del ADC cuantitativo, los cuales fueron comparados con el diagnóstico histopatológico como estándar de oro, obteniendo datos de sensibilidad, especificidad, valores predictivos positivos y negativos. Las diferencias entre medianas fueron determinadas mediante la prueba de Kruskall-Wallis. El valor p entre el valor del ADC cuantitativo y el estándar de oro se calculó con la prueba X2 de Pearson, con un nivel de significancia de p<0.05. Resultados. La edad media fue 83.9 meses (DE=57 meses) y 64.28% fueron niños. El tumor más frecuente fue el meduloblastoma (39.29%). Para el diagnóstico de meduloblastoma se estableció un valor ADC cuantitativo de 0.6210x10-3mm2/s, obteniéndose una sensibilidad y especificidad de 81.82% y 76.47%, respectivamente, y para el diagnóstico de astrocitoma pilocítico, un ADC cuantitativo de 1.03x10-3mm2/s, con una sensibilidad de 66.67% y una especificidad de 89.40%. Conclusiones. El valor del ADC cuantitativo es útil para clasificar y diferenciar los tumores de la fosa posterior en población pediátrica colombiana, mostrando una relación inversamente proporcional con el grado tumoral.

A clival-cervical plate fixation for the craniovertebral instability: a biomechanical study / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To develop a specialized clival-cervical plate fixation (CCPF) for anterior surgery to treat craniovertebral instability, and to compare it with a posterior occipitocervical fixation (POCF) in biomechanical validation.Methods:Based on the measurement of 40 adult dry bones and 30 volunteers CT images, the clival-cervical plate was designed and manufactured. 8 cadaveric specimens (occiput-C 3) were tested in five conditions including the intact status, the intact+CCPF status, the injury status, the injury+CCPF status, and the injury+POCF status. Specimens were applied a pure moment of 1.5 N·m in flexion, extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation. Calculating and comparing the range of motion (ROM) and neutral zone (NZ) for the occiput to C 2. The effects of different fixation methods on the distribution of ROMs at the occipitocervical region were compared. Results:The injury+CCPF status constrained ROMs to 1.7° in flexion ( q=4.68, P=0.055) , 1.2° in extension ( q=0.39, P=0.9922) , 2.8° in lateral bending ( q=1.25, P=0.814) , and 4.3° in axial rotation ( q=5.08, P=0.035) , resulted in larger ROM in axial rotation but similar ROMs in other directions ( P>0.05) when compared with the injury+POCF status. There were no significant differences between the above two fixation methods in flexion-extension ( q=1.94, P=0.554) , lateral bending ( q=1.79, P=0.611) and axial rotation ( q=2.14, P=0.478) for the NZs. For the flexion, extension,lateral bendingand axial rotation direction, the proportion of the C 1, 2 ROM to the overall ROM was 28%, 25%, 34% and 56% respectively in the injury+CCPF status, and it was 59%, 53%, 42% and 71% respectively in the injury+POCF status. Conclusion:CCPF is a biomechanically effective alternative or supplemental method of POCF for the craniocervical instability.

A makeshift blue light filter for endoscopic identification of traumatic cerebrospinal fluid leak using fluorescein

Objective@#To describe a makeshift blue light filter for endoscopic visualization of a traumatic cerebrospinal fluid leak repair using intrathecal fluorescein and its application in one patient.@*Methods@# Study Design:Surgical Instrumentation Setting:Tertiary Government Training Hospital Patient:One @*Results@#Intra-operative endoscopic identification of fistulae sites was achieved using intrathecal injection of fluorescein that fluoresced using our makeshift blue light filter in a 43-year-old man who presented with a 3-month history of rhinorrhea due to skull base fractures along with multiple facial and upper extremity fractures he sustained after a fall from a standing height of 6 feet. He underwent transnasal endoscopic repair of cerebrospinal fluid fistulae in the planum sphenoidale, clivus and sellar floor. Post-operatively, there was complete resolution of rhinorrhea with no complications noted. @*Conclusion@#Our makeshift blue light filter made from readily available materials may be useful for endoscopic identification of CSF leaks using fluorescein in a low- to middle-income country setting like ours.

The relationship of the posterior cranial fossa with age and sex / Relación de la fosa craneal posterior con la edad y el sexo

SUMMARY: This paper determined the morphometric measurements of posterior cranial fossa using MRI in Turkish healthy population. Two hundred thirty one (231; 131 females and 100 males) subjects ranging from 20 up to 85 years were included in this study. Measurements of the posterior cranial fossa were taken from subjects having brain MRI in the Radiology Department, Adana, Turkey. Statistical analysis were done by SPSS 21.00 package programme. ANOVA Test and Chi-Square Test were used to determine the relation between measurements and age groups. The p<0.05 value was considered as significant. The overall means and standard deviations of the measurements were: Clivus length,31.10?5.45 mm; McRae line, 32.59?3.89 mm; Supraocciput length,41.99 ? 4.37 mm; Twining line, 79.23?5.53 mm; Posterior cranial fossa height, 66.76?5.06 mm; Cerebellum height, 55.17?5.29 mm; Clival angle, 125.59??6.57?; Cerebellar tentorium angle, 128.30??7.77? mm, Occipital protuberance angle, 93.27??8.02? and hindbrain vertical length, 50.56?3.47 mmin females, respectively, whereas the corresponding values were 32.43?5.99 mm; 32.85?3.77 mm; 42.46?4.68 mm; 80.95?5.94 mm; 69.70?4.67mm; 57.01?3.43 mm; 123.90??7.12? 128.80?8.33?; 95.35?9.19? and 52.71?3.33 mm in males, respectively. Significant difference was found in some parameters such as twining line, posterior cranial fossa height, cerebellum height and hindbrain vertical length between sex (p<0.05). Also, ages were divided into six groups as decades. Significant difference between six decades was also found in parameters including McRae line, twining line, posterior cranial fossa height, cerebellum height, clival angle, cerebellar tentorium angle, occipital tuberance angle and hindbrain vertical length (p<0.05). The posterior cranial fossa dimensions of healthy population provides important and useful knowledge in terms of comparison of abnormalities clinically, and data can be used as an anatomical landmark during surgery involving posterior cranial fossa.

RESUMEN: Se determinaron las medidas morfométricas de la fosa craneal posterior mediante resonancia magnética en una población turca. Se incluyeron doscientos treinta y un (231; 131 mujeres y 100 hombres) sujetos sanos con edades entre los 20 y los 85 años. Por medio de una resonancia magnética cerebral se tomaron medidas de la fosa craneal posterior de sujetos en el Departamento de Radiología de Adana, Turquía. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante el programa de SPSS 21.00. Se utilizó la prueba ANOVA y la prueba de chi-cuadrado para determinar la relación entre las medidas y los grupos de edad. Se consideró significativo el valor de p <0,05. Las medias generales y las desviaciones estándar de las medidas en las mujeres fueron: longitud del clivus, 31,10 ? 5,45 mm; Línea McRae, 32,59 ? 3,89 mm; Longitud del supraoccipucio, 41,99 ? 4,37 mm; línea de Twining (desde el tubérculo selar hasta la confluencia de los senos), 79,23 ? 5,53 mm; Altura posterior de la fosa craneal, 66,76 ? 5,06 mm; Altura del cerebelo, 55,17 ? 5,29 mm; Ángulo clival, 125,59 ? ? 6,57 ?; Ángulo del tentorio cerebeloso, 128,30 ? ? 7,77 ? mm, Angulo de protuberancia occipital, 93,27 ? ? 8,02 ? y Longitud vertical del rombencéfalo, 50,56 ? 3,47 mm. En los hombres los valores obte- nidos fueron 32,43 ? 5,99 mm; 32,85 ? 3,77 mm; 42,46 ? 4,68 mm; 80,95 ? 5,94 mm; 69,70 ? 4,67 mm; 57,01 ? 3,43 mm; 123,90 ? ? 7,12 ? 128,80 ? 8,33 ?; 95,35 ? 9,19 ? y 52,71 ? 3,33 mm, respectivamente. Se encontraron diferencias significativas entre ambos sexos (p <0,05) en algunos de los parámetros, como la línea de Twining, la altura de la fosa craneal posterior, la altura del cerebelo y la longitud vertical del rombencéfalo. También se encontró una diferencia significativa entre las edades de los individuos (división en seis décadas) en los parámetros que incluyen la línea de McRae, la línea de Twining, la altura de la fosa craneal posterior, la altura del cerebelo, el ángulo de clivación, el ángulo de la tienda del cerebelo, el ángulo de protuberancia occipital y la longitud vertical del rombencéfalo (p <0,05). La población estudiada nos proporciona información importante y útil en términos de comparación clínica de anomalías y los datos pueden eventualmente ser utilizados como un punto de referencia anatómico durante la cirugía que involucra la fosa craneal posterior.

Middle Cranial Fossa Approach: The Incudomalleolar Joint as a Reliable Landmark

Abstract Introduction The middle cranial fossa approach is performed by fewer neurotologists owing to a reduced number of indications. Consistent landmarks are mandatory to guide the surgeon in a narrow field. Objectives We have evaluated the incus and malleus head and the incudomalleal joint (IMJ) as a key landmark for identifying the superior semicircular canal (SSC) and to get oriented along the floor of the middle cranial fossa. Methods A combination of 20 temporal bone dissections and CT imaging were utilized to test and describe these landmarks. Results The blue line of the SSC is consistently identified along the prolongation of a virtual line through the IMJ and the angulation toward the root of zygoma. The mean distance from the zygoma toward the IMJ ranged from 1.60 to 1.90cm. Once the IMJ was identified, the blue line of the SSC was consistently found along the virtual line through the IMJ within 5 to 9mm. Conclusions The IMJ is a safe and consistent anatomical marker in the surgical approach to the middle cranial fossa floor. Opening the tegmen 1.5 to 2cm medial to the root of the zygoma and identifying the joint allows to trace a virtual line toward the SSC within 5 to 9mm. Knowledge of the close relationship between the direction of the IMJ and the superior canal can be used in all transtemporal approaches, thus orienting the surgeon in a rather narrow field with limited retraction of the dura and brain.

Fetal ventricles and posterior cranial fossa development in second and third trimesters and their variations with gestational age: a quantitative MRI study / 中华围产医学杂志

Objective:To investigate the normal range of fetal ventricles and posterior cranial fossa development in the second and third trimesters and their variations with gestational age using quantitative MRI analysis.Methods:This retrospective study enrolled 675 pregnant women who underwent prenatal MRI examination with an average gestational week of 29.0±8.5 in the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University from January 2016 to January 2020. MRI data of all the subjects were collected and analyzed, including left lateral ventricle trigonometric width (LLVTW) and right lateral ventricle trigonometric width (RLVTW), third ventricle width (TVW), fourth ventricle width (FVW), the anterior-posterior diameter of the fourth ventricle (APDFV), cavum septum pellucidum width (CSPW), cisterna magna width (CMW), etc. Spearman, Pearson correlation analysis, and t-test were used for the statistical analysis. Results:(1) Totally 675 fetuses were recruited, including 392 female and 283 male fetuses. No statistical difference of gestational weeks at MRI was found between male and female fetuses. (2)The mean value of TVW and CMW of the female fetuses were significantly higher than those of male fetuses [(0.60±0.05) vs (0.63±0.04) cm, t=－5.059; (0.57±0.14) vs (0.67±0.15) cm, t=－7.445; both P<0.001]. Spearman correlation analysis showed that TVW and CMW were negatively correlated with fetal gender ( r=－0.179 and－0.312, both P<0.001). (3)Pearson correlation analysis showed that LLVTW, RLVTW, TVW, FVW, APDFV, CSPW, and CMW were all positively correlated with gestational weeks ( r=0.310, 0.267, 0.205, 0.801, 0.829, 0.216 and 0.284, all P<0.001). FVW and APDFV were significantly linearly correlated with gestational weeks (r=0.801 and 0.829, both P<0.001). (4) There was no significant change in LLVTW and RLVTW in the second trimester, but a slight increase was found in the third trimester. TVW showed a scattered distribution in the second and third trimesters and increased slightly with the gestational week at 26 to 27 +6 gestational weeks. FVW and APDFV increased linearly while. CSPW increased slowly with gestational weeks in the second and third trimesters. CMW increased slightly with gestational weeks in the second and third trimesters but showed little change in the third trimester. Conclusions:The development of fetal ventricles and posterior cranial fossa in the second and third trimesters show a growth trend of varying degrees with the increase of gestational weeks. TVW and CMW are significantly negatively correlated with the fetal gender.

Morphometric and Topographic Assessment of Foramen Ovale in Skulls of Jharkhand Population

Foramen ovale, situated in the greater wing of sphenoid, posterolateral to the foramen rotundum, transmits the sensory and motor root of mandibular nerve, accessory meningeal artery, emissary vein and lesser petrosal nerve to the infratemporal fossa. The normal shape of the foramen is oval, but its shape and size is quite variable. It plays an important role in the diagnostic and surgical procedures related to the middle cranial fossa. So, knowledge of the variations, dimensions and the topographic location is of importance to the neurosurgeons while dealing with surgeries in this region. Our study aims at finding the morphological variations in shape, dimensions of foramen ovale and its location in relation to the zygomatic arch.METHODSA cross-sectional observational study was carried out over a period of one year from 1/6/2018 to 31/5/2019, on 46 adult human skulls, taken from the department of Anatomy, RIMS, Ranchi. Fully dried, intact, adult human skulls were included in the study. Foramen ovale was observed for variation in shape, size and location. The presence of any accessory bony structure like bony plate, spine or septa was looked for and prevalence noted. The maximum antero-posterior length and width of foramen ovale and its distance from articular tubercle and the anterior root of zygomatic arch were measured using Vernier callipers. Pathologically malformed and damaged skulls were excluded from the study.RESULTSFour types of shapes were observed – oval (76.08%) , almond (5.43%) , semilunar (8.69%) and triangular (9.78%). The mean anteroposterior dimension of foramen ovale was 6.96 ± 1.17 mm (6.89 ± 1.28 mm on the right side & 7.02 ± 1.05 mm on the left side) and the mean transverse dimension was 3.35 ± 0.66 mm (3.25 ± 0.57 mm on the right side, 3.45 ± 0.73 mm on the left side) . The mean distance of foramen ovale from articular tubercle on zygomatic arch was 32.58 ± 1.29 mm (32.41 ± 1.10 mm on the right side, 32.74 ± 1.45 mm on the left side) and from anterior root of zygomatic arch was 24.75 ± 1.70 (23.91 ± 0.85 mm on the right side, 25.59 ± 1.92 mm on the left side).CONCLUSIONSThere is no significant average difference between FO_AP_RT – FO_AP_LT. There is no significant average difference between FO Width_RT - FO_Width_LT. There is a significant average difference between FO to Art. Tubercle Right - FO to Art Tubercle left. There is a significant average difference FO to ant. root Right - FO to ant. root left.

Fetal posterior fossa malformations: review of the current knowledge / Malformações da fossa posterior fetal: revisão do conhecimento atual

Abstract Ultrasound diagnosis of posterior fossa malformations in the prenatal period is a challenge, having major implications for the counseling and follow-up of pregnant women. The purpose of this study was to review aspects of the ultrasound evaluation of the fetal posterior fossa, as well as to describe the most relevant ultrasound findings of the main posterior fossa malformations that can affect the fetus in the prenatal period.

Resumo O diagnóstico ultrassonográfico das malformações da fossa posterior no período pré-natal é um desafio, com importantes implicações no aconselhamento e acompanhamento dessas gestações. O objetivo deste estudo é revisar aspectos da avaliação ultrassonográfica da fossa posterior do feto e descrever os principais achados ultrassonográficos das principais malformações da fossa posterior que podem acometer o feto no período pré-natal.

Comparison of Morphometry of Foramen Magnum and Posterior Cranial Fossa in Dry Human Skull

Bougie is an important adjunct in the anaesthesiologist armoury for a difficult airway1. Physical damage to bougie leading to airway trauma is rare but can be catastrophic. We report a case of an anticipated difficult extubation, where the bougie, used to extubate over the tube broke and migrated into the trachea indicating the need of a protocol for routine inspection of bougie which should be strictly adhered to

Condromatosis Sinovial Primaria de la Articulación Temporomandibular con Extensión a Hueso Temporal. Reporte de un Caso y Revisión de la Literatura / Primary Synovial Chondromatosis of the Temporomandibular Joint with Temporal Bone Extension. Case Report and Literature Review

RESUMEN: La condromatosis sinovial (CS), es una lesión benigna poco frecuente y de clínica bastante inespecífica. Suele afectar articulaciones de huesos largos como la rodilla, el codo y la cadera, presentándose generalmente de manera unilateral. Se cree que solo un 3 % de los casos de CS afecta la articulación temporomandibular. Esta condición se caracteriza por ser un trastorno metaplásico del tejido conectivo sinovial que suele manifestarse con la formación de pequeños y múltiples nódulos de cartílago que posteriormente pueden desprenderse, calcificarse y formar cuerpos libres dentro del espacio articular. Presentamos el caso de una mujer de 55 años con condromatosis sinovial de la articulación temporomandibular, tratada desde hace 3 años bajo el diagnóstico de desórdenes temporomandibulares. A pesar de ser considerada una lesión de tipo benigna, esta puede llegar a ser localmente agresiva, extendiéndose como en nuestro reporte hacia la fosa craneal media, adelgazando parte del hueso temporal.

ABSTRACT: Synovial chondromatosis (CS) is a benign lesion that is rare and clinically quite nonspecific. It usually affects the joints of long bones such as the knee, elbow and hip, usually occurring unilaterally. It is believed that in only 3 % of cases of CS the temporomandibular joint. This is a condition its characterized by being a metaplastic synovial connective tissue that manifests itself with the formation of small and multiple cartridges that detach, calcify and form free bodies within the joint space. We present the case of a 55-year-old woman with synovial chondromatosis of the temporomandibular joint, treated for 3 years under the diagnosis of temporomandibular disorders. Despite being considered a benign lesion, this can become locally aggressive, extending as in our report to the cranial fossa, thinning part of the temporal bone.

Morphometric Study of Posterior Cranial Fossa Using Computerized Tomographic (CT) Images

Introduction: The posterior cranial fossa is the largest and the deepest of the three fossae. Contents of posterior cranial fossa include occipital part of cerebral hemispheres, cerebellum, midbrain, pons and medulla oblongata. Variations in the volume of posterior cranial fossa may cause compression of these structures which may lead to various disorders. There is increasing evidence on the diagnostic potential of posterior cranial fossa measurements. The present study on morphometry of posterior cranial fossa based on CT images of patients without any clinical abnormality was undertaken for the first time in south Indian population. Subjects and Methods: To study and compare sex-wise and age-wise differences in the supratentorial and posterior cranial fossa (PF) measurements in the normal CT scan images of 62 males and 38 females who attended the Neurology department of SVIMS belonging to Rayalaseema region was undertaken. The measurements that were recorded are transverse diameter (TD) and anteroposterior diameter (APD) of supratentorial part and also posterior cranial fossa and height and volume of posterior cranial fossa. Results: The mean supratentorial TD and APD were found to be less in male but were not statistically significant sex-wise and age-wise. The mean posterior fossa APD was significant, PF height and volume were highly significantly in males. Discussion: There are no reports on supratentorial parameters in literature for comparing the results of present study. Except for one study on CT on height and volume of posterior cranial fossa there are no other studies for comparing the values of present study. Conclusion: Observations on supratentorial parameters of the present study are the first to be reported in literature.Age-wise and sex-wise observation of parameters of TD and APD of PF are the first to be reported in literature.

Traumatic Posterior Fossa Epidural Hematomas in Children : Experience with 48 Cases and a Review of the Literature

OBJECTIVE: Epidural haematoma (EDH) most commonly occurs in the supratentorial area, particularly in the temporal region, of the brain. Posterior fossa epidural haematoma (PFEDH) is less frequently observed, accounting for only 1.2% to 12.9% of all EDH cases. Because of the non-specific symptoms and the potential for rapid and fatal deterioration in children, an early computed tomography (CT) scanning is necessary for all suspicious cases. The aim of the present study was to share the experience of 48 cases and review the literature concerning PFEDH.METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted for 48 paediatric cases diagnosed with PFEDH and admitted to Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from January 2010 to August 2015. The clinical features and outcomes were analyzed and compared with previous literature.RESULTS: Seventeen patients were surgically treated in this series and 31 patients received non-operative treatment. The outcomes were good in 46 patients, evaluated using the Glasgow outcome score (GOS), while mild disability was observed in one patient, and only one case showed severe disability. There were no cases of mortality in this series.CONCLUSION: Posterior fossa epidural haematoma is relatively rare compared with supratentorial epidural haematoma. Early and serial CT scans should be performed for all suspicious cases. The criteria for the surgical treatment of paediatric patients with PFEDH were concluded. The overall prognosis was excellent in paediatric patients.

Traumatic Posterior Fossa Epidural Hematomas in Children : Experience with 48 Cases and a Review of the Literature

OBJECTIVE: Epidural haematoma (EDH) most commonly occurs in the supratentorial area, particularly in the temporal region, of the brain. Posterior fossa epidural haematoma (PFEDH) is less frequently observed, accounting for only 1.2% to 12.9% of all EDH cases. Because of the non-specific symptoms and the potential for rapid and fatal deterioration in children, an early computed tomography (CT) scanning is necessary for all suspicious cases. The aim of the present study was to share the experience of 48 cases and review the literature concerning PFEDH. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted for 48 paediatric cases diagnosed with PFEDH and admitted to Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from January 2010 to August 2015. The clinical features and outcomes were analyzed and compared with previous literature. RESULTS: Seventeen patients were surgically treated in this series and 31 patients received non-operative treatment. The outcomes were good in 46 patients, evaluated using the Glasgow outcome score (GOS), while mild disability was observed in one patient, and only one case showed severe disability. There were no cases of mortality in this series. CONCLUSION: Posterior fossa epidural haematoma is relatively rare compared with supratentorial epidural haematoma. Early and serial CT scans should be performed for all suspicious cases. The criteria for the surgical treatment of paediatric patients with PFEDH were concluded. The overall prognosis was excellent in paediatric patients.

Chondromucinous tumors involving craniocerebral slope area: a clinicopathological analysis of eight cases / 中华病理学杂志

Objective@#To investigate the histological type and clinicopathological characteristics of the craniocerebral slope tumors with chondromucinous features.@*Methods@#Retrospective analysis was conducted to analyze chondromucinous tumors in the slope area diagnosed at Henan Provincial People′s Hospital from October 2011 to June 2018. Relevant clinical and pathological data were reviewed, and immunohistochemistry was used to investigate the immunophenotype of the tumors.@*Results@#Eight cases were identified, including 4 males and 4 females with patient age ranging from 20 to 48 years. Histologically, there were 1 case of chordoid meningioma, 1 chondromyxoid fibroma, 1 mucinous chondrosarcoma, 1 Maffucci syndrome, and 4 chondroid chordomas.@*Conclusion@#Chondromucinous tumors of the slope area include chordoma, chordoid meningioma, chondromyxoid fibroma, and myxoid chondrosarcoma and their correct diagnosis is mainly based on the morphological characteristics, immunophenotype and comprehensive analysis of clinical data.

Foramen venoso órbito cavernoso: foramen de Warwick / Cavernous orbital venous foramen: Warwick´s foramen

El foramen de Warwick o foramen venoso órbito cavernoso, es un foramen inconstante del ala mayor del esfenoides, situado entre la fisura orbitaria superior y el foramen rotundo. Comunica la órbita con la fosa craneal media y/o con la fosa pterigopalatina y permitiría el paso de la vena oftálmica inferior. La presencia del foramen venoso órbito cavernoso varía entre el 0,38 % y el 0,74 %. Se describe con forma redondeada o crescéntica (semilunar), unilateral o bilateral. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evidenciar la presencia y las características de foramen venoso órbito cavernoso en cráneos secos de individuos adultos chilenos de ambos sexos. Se analizaron 138 cráneos de individuos adultos y de ambos sexos, en búsqueda del foramen venoso órbito cavernoso para determinar la frecuencia, localización, forma, tamaño, orientación y distancias con respecto a la fisura orbitaria superior y el foramen rotundo. Los forámenes encontrados fueron fotografiados, explorados y medidos. La presencia del foramen venoso órbito cavernoso fue del 2,17 % de la muestra, encontrándose en forma unilateral (1,45 %) y bilateral (0,17 %). Con forma redondeada en 3 casos y semilunar en 1 caso. Con orientación hacia la órbita (2 casos) y hacia la fosa pterigopalatina (2 casos). También se evidenció que cuando está presente el foramen venoso órbito cavernoso, la separación entre la fisura orbitaria superior y el foramen rotundo es mayor que en su ausencia. Nuestro estudio demuestra la presencia del foramen venoso órbito cavernoso en la población chilena, con una frecuencia más alta que la observada en otras poblaciones. La localización, orientación y formas coinciden con la literatura, pero difiere en el tamaño (en forámenes redondeados). También pudimos determinar que la fisura orbitaria superior y el foramen rotundo tienden a encontrarse más cercanos en ausencia del foramen venoso órbito cavernoso y por lo tanto más distante cuando esta estructura está presente. Este hecho no está descrito en la literatura. Los resultados de este estudio son importantes para la anatomía, oftalmología, traumatología, imagenología, cirugía e identificación humana. Finalmente y en virtud de la TAI, proponemos llamar a este foramen, foramen venoso órbito cavernoso.

The Warwick's foramen or cavernous orbital venous foramen, is an inconstant foramen from the greater wing of the sphenoid bone, located between the superior orbital fissure and the rotundum foramen. It connects the orbit with the middle cranial fossa and/or with the pterygopalatine fossa and allows for the passage of the inferior ophthalmic vein. The presence of the cavernous orbital venous foramen varies between 0.38 % and 0.74 % in human skulls. It is described as having a rounded or crescentic (semilunar), unilateral or bilateral shape. The objective of the present work was to demonstrate the presence and characteristics of the cavernous orbital venous foramen in dry skulls of Chilean adult individuals of both sexes. One hundred and thirty-eight adult skulls of both sexes were analyzed in search of the cavernous orbital venous foramen to determine the frequency, location, shape, size, orientation and distances with respect to the superior orbital fissure and the rotund foramen. Found foramina were photographed, explored and measured. The cavernous orbital venous foramen was present in 2.17 % of the sample, and was both unilateral (1.45 %) and bilateral (0.17 %). It had a rounded and lunate shape in 3 and 1 cases, respectively. Moreover, it was orientated towards the orbit (2 cases) and towards the pterygopalatine fossa (2 cases). It was also evidenced that when the cavernous orbital venous foramen is present, the separation between the superior orbital fissure and the rotund foramen is greater than in its absence. Our study demonstrates the presence of the cavernous orbital venous foramen in the Chilean population, with a higher frequency than described previously. The location, orientation and observed forms agree with the literature, but differ in size (in rounded shape foramen). We could also determine that the superior orbital fissure and the rotundum foramen tend to be closer in the absence of the cavernous orbital venous foramen and, therefore, are more distant when this structure is present. This fact is not described in the literature. The results of this study are important for anatomy, ophthalmology, traumatology, imaging, surgery and human identification. Finally, and by virtue of the International Anatomical Terminology (IAT), we propose to call this structure the cavernous orbital venous foramen.

The value of whole tumors volume based T2 histogram analysis for differential diagnosis in pediatric posterior fossa tumors / 中华放射学杂志

Objective To study the value of whole tumors T2WI gray histogram analysis for differential diagnosis of three commonly presented pediatric posterior fossa tumors. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted to compare brain MRI examination and pathology diagnosis of 133 cases of posterior fossa tumors in pediatric patients in our hospital.Among them, there were 49 cases of ependymoma(there were 25 males and 24 females), 36 cases of astrocytoma(WHO grade Ⅰ)(there were 19 males and 17 females), 48 cases of medulloblastoma(there were 36 males and 12 females),aged 1 to 14 years old, with an average (7±2) years old. Respectively draw the region of interest (ROI) in the T2 MR transaxial images of three groups on each layer of tumor level by using Mazda software and analyze the whole tumors gray histogram, including mean,variance, kurtosis,skewness, perc.01%,perc.10%,perc.50%,perc.90% and perc.99%.The histogram parameters of the three groups were not normally distributed. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the three groups. Bonferroni test was used to compare the two groups to find out statistical significance of each parameter. Results Through histogram analysis of 9 parameters, these 9 parameters were statistically significant (all P <0.05),including mean,variance,kurtosis,skewness, perc.01%,perc.10%,perc.50%,perc.90% and perc.99%. The sensitivity of skewness to differentiate ependymoma and the astrocytoma was 69.4％, the specificity was 77.8％, the area under the curve was 0.744, and the best cut-off value was-0.08. The sensitivity of kurtosis to differentiate astrocytoma and the medulloblastoma was 95.8％, the specificity was 97.2％ and the area under the curve was 0.972, the cut-off was 1.68. The sensitivity of kurtosis to differentiate ependymoma and the medulloblastoma was 91.7％, the specificity was 89.8％and the area under the curve was 0.932,the cut-off was 1.90.They had a high identification efficiency. Conclusions The T2WI gray histogram analysis based whole tumors is helpful for the dignosis of three types of pediatric posterior fossa tumors. Skewness has a high diagnostic efficiency to differentiate ependymoma and the astrocytoma. Kurtosis has a high diagnostic efficiency to differentiate ependymoma and the medulloblastoma. Kurtosis has a high diagnostic efficiency to differentiate ependymoma and medulloblastoma.

Localization of internal auditory canal in the middle cranial fossa approach: a study in Chinese based on CT reconstruction technique / 上海交通大学学报（医学版）

Objective • To study how to localize the internal auditory canal in the middle cranial fossa approach in Chinese using CT reconstruction technique. Methods • Forty-four cases (88 sides) of normal temporal bone CT data were selected, including 22 males and 22 females. The anatomical structures of the middle cranial fossa including the skull base, the internal auditory canal and the superior semicircular canal were reconstructed in 3D. The angle between great superficial petrosal nerve and internal auditory canal, the angle between superior semicircular canal and internal auditory canal and the osseous thickness above internal auditory canal were measured. The angle and distance were statistically analyzed in different sex and side groups. Results • On the reconstructed 3D middle cranial base, the arcuate eminence could only be identified in 43% cases. The angle between great superficial petrosal nerve and internal auditory canal was 51.46˚±9.28˚; the angle between superior semicircular canal and internal auditory canal was 49.22˚±7.32˚; the osseous thickness above internal auditory canal was (4.38±0.97) mm. No gender or side difference was noticed. Conclusion • There are significant individual differences in angulation and distance between the internal auditory canal and its related anatomical structures. CT reconstruction technique is helpful for accurate localization of the internal auditory canal.

Modified Orbitozygomatic Approach without Orbital Roof Removal for Middle Fossa Lesions

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the present study was to describe an OrBitoZygomatic (OBZ) surgical variant that implies the drilling of the orbital roof and lateral wall of the orbit without orbitotomy.METHODS: Design : cross-sectional study. Between January 2010 and December 2014, 18 patients with middle fossa lesions underwent the previously mentioned OBZ surgical variant. Gender, age, histopathological diagnosis, complications, and percentage of resection were registered. The detailed surgical technique is described.RESULTS: Of the 18 cases listed in the study, nine were males and nine females. Seventeen cases (94.5%) were diagnosed as primary tumoral lesions, one case (5.5%) presented with metastasis of a carcinoma, and an additional one had a fibrous dysplasia. Age ranged between 27 and 73 years. Early complications were developed in four cases, but all of these were completely resolved. None developed enophthalmos.CONCLUSION: The present study illustrates a novel surgical OBZ approach that allows for the performance of a simpler and faster procedure with fewer complications, and without increasing surgical time or cerebral manipulation, for reaching lesions of the middle fossa. Thorough knowledge of the anatomy and surgical technique is essential for successful completion of the procedure.