Ala cristae galli

Anatomical feature of the ethmoid bone

Ala cristae galli

System	Skeletal system

The ala cristae galli refers to the wing-like structures on either side of the crista galli, a vertical projection of the ethmoid bone located in the midline of the anterior cranial fossa. The crista galli serves as an important anatomical landmark and attachment point for the falx cerebri, a dural fold that separates the two cerebral hemispheres.

Anatomy

The ala cristae galli are small, lateral extensions of the crista galli. They are part of the ethmoid bone, which is a complex structure located between the eyes and forming part of the nasal cavity and the orbits. The ethmoid bone consists of several parts, including the cribriform plate, perpendicular plate, and the labyrinths.

The crista galli itself is a thin, midline ridge that projects superiorly from the cribriform plate. The ala cristae galli extend laterally from the base of the crista galli, contributing to the stability and attachment of the falx cerebri.

Function

The primary function of the ala cristae galli, along with the crista galli, is to provide an attachment point for the falx cerebri. This dural fold is a critical structure that helps to stabilize the brain within the cranial cavity, preventing excessive movement and providing a partition between the left and right cerebral hemispheres.

Clinical Significance

The ala cristae galli, while not commonly referenced in clinical practice, can be of interest in certain neurosurgical procedures or in the context of cranial trauma. Damage to the ethmoid bone, including the crista galli and its alae, can have implications for the stability of the falx cerebri and the overall integrity of the anterior cranial fossa.

Also see

• Ethmoid bone
• Crista galli
• Falx cerebri
• Anterior cranial fossa
• Cribriform plate