Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Evaluation of Shape, Linear Dimensions and Volume of Sella Turcica: A Retrospective Observational Study

Abstract

Background: Sella turcica is an important saddle shaped structure that houses the pituitary gland. Any deviation in the development of the pituitary gland may affect the size and shape of the sella turcica as well. So, the morphology of the sella turcica gains special importance in certain clinical conditions. The aim of this study was to assess the shape, linear dimensions and volume of sella turcica in healthy adults using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Material and Methods: This retrospective study involved CBCT images of 108 healthy adults. The sagittal, axial, and coronal slices of CBCT images were used to evaluate the shape, volume and linear dimensions. Results: The overall linear dimensions of sella turcica were length 8.59 ±1.49 mm, depth 7.27 ±1.16 mm, diameter 10.24 ±1.75 mm and volume 1499.69 ± 395.5 mm3 respectively. The length of sella turcica was higher in males than females which was statistically signifcant (p = 0.015) while the depth, diameter and volume reported non-signifcant results. The most frequent shape of sella turcica was normal and the least frequent was sella turcica bridging. The Pearson correlation co-efcient was statistically significant for the length vs diameter and volume along with diameter vs volume in both genders (p < 0.01). The depth was statistically correlated with length, diameter and volume in males (p <0.01). Conclusion: The sella turcica shape and dimensions can be used in forensic and medicolegal purposes. So, a thorough of knowledge about this important structure is necessary.