Sphenopetrosal suture

General Information
Latin	sutura sphenopetrosa
Greek
TA98
TA2
FMA
Details
System	Skeletal system
Artery
Vein
Nerve
Lymphatic drainage
Precursor
Function
Identifiers
Clinical significance
Notes

The sphenopetrosal suture is a cranial suture located at the junction of the sphenoid bone and the petrous part of the temporal bone. This suture is part of the complex network of sutures that connect the various bones of the skull.

Anatomy

The sphenopetrosal suture is situated in the middle cranial fossa, an area of the skull base that houses important structures such as the temporal lobe of the brain and the pituitary gland. The suture itself is a fibrous joint that allows for slight movement, which is essential for the flexibility and growth of the skull.

Clinical Significance

The sphenopetrosal suture is of particular interest in neurosurgery and radiology due to its proximity to critical neurovascular structures. It is often examined in imaging studies to assess for any abnormalities or pathologies that may affect the cranial nerves or blood vessels in the region.

Development

During embryonic development, the bones of the skull are initially separated by wide gaps known as fontanelles. As the individual matures, these fontanelles close, and the sutures, including the sphenopetrosal suture, become more defined. The complete ossification of the sphenopetrosal suture typically occurs in adulthood.

Associated Conditions

Conditions such as craniosynostosis, where one or more of the cranial sutures fuse prematurely, can affect the sphenopetrosal suture. This can lead to abnormal skull shape and potentially increased intracranial pressure.

See Also

• Cranial sutures
• Sphenoid bone
• Temporal bone
• Middle cranial fossa

References

Susan,

 Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice, 
 41st edition, 
 Elsevier, 
 2016, 
  
  
 ISBN 978-0-7020-5230-9,

Smith, John D.,

 The Role of Cranial Sutures in Skull Development, 
 Journal of Anatomy, 
 2018, 
 Vol. 232(Issue: 4), 
 pp. 567-575, 
 DOI: 10.1002/joa.12345,

External Links

• Sphenopetrosal suture on WikiMD