Lambdoid suture

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Lambdoid suture

The lambdoid suture is a dense, fibrous connective tissue joint that connects the parietal bones with the occipital bone of the skull. It is one of the major sutures of the skull and is named for its resemblance to the Greek letter lambda (Λ).

Anatomy

The lambdoid suture is located at the posterior aspect of the skull. It extends from the asterion, where it meets the squamosal suture, to the lambda, where it intersects with the sagittal suture. The suture is bordered by the parietal bones on either side and the occipital bone at the back of the skull.

Development

During infancy and childhood, the lambdoid suture is not fully fused, allowing for the growth of the skull. The suture typically begins to fuse in early adulthood and can be completely fused by the age of 30. Premature fusion of the lambdoid suture can lead to a condition known as craniosynostosis, which can affect the shape of the skull and potentially lead to complications.

Clinical Significance

The lambdoid suture is an important landmark in neurosurgery and forensic anthropology. It is often examined in cases of head trauma to assess for fractures. Additionally, the suture's condition can provide information about the age of skeletal remains.

Related Structures

• Sagittal suture
• Coronal suture
• Squamosal suture
• Fontanelle
• Craniosynostosis

See Also

• Human skull
• Cranial sutures
• Parietal bone
• Occipital bone