Modelling the calvarium diploe

The paper presents the effects of computer modelling of the inner structure of the calvarium from CT scans using MeeSoft Image Analyzer software. This software generates a model image, which can be enlarged and viewed from different angles without visible distortion or blurring of the contours. Similar manipulation with the original CT scan produces destructive effects, which hinder visualisation of the anatomical structures

Enhancement of the focal depth in anatomical photography

Limited depth of field is one of the crucial disadvantages of macro photography because some details of the imagined object are blurred. This paper presents the benefits of using an algorithm which enhances focal depth in the close-up views of anatomical structures. The applied technique was based on combining a set of images of the same object (temporal bone) taken on different focal planes. In effect, a single image was generated which presented all details sharply across the photographed object. The extended depth of field of the composite image was reconstructed by CombineZP Image Stacking Software. (Folia Morphol 2011; 70, 4: 260–262

Anatomy of the fundus of the internal acoustic meatus — micro-computed tomography study

The aim of this paper was to present micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) high resolution images of the fundus of internal acoustic meatus (FIAM) and characterise the normal appearance of its singular areas which are places of passage of numerous anatomical structures. By using micro-CT we obtain detailed volume rendering images presenting topography of the FIAM in 3-dimensional (3D) space. We figured out that 3D reconstructions obtained from micro-CT scans can precisely demonstrate all areas of the FIAM (facial nerve area, cochlear area, superior and inferior vestibular areas, singular foramen). Application of this technique allows finding out new anatomical structures like the foramen of the transverse crest, which is not described in literature. Hence, we estimated the size of each area of the FIAM by measuring their minimal and maximal diameter. In the studied material we did not find out any statistically significant difference between mean diameters calculated for infant and adult individuals.

The scaphocephalic skull of an adult male

The paper presents abnormal craniofacial morphology of an adult male afflicted with premature closure of the sagittal suture. The skull is well preserved and there are no visible traits of surgical management which would be aimed to correctcranial deformation. In consequence of the restricted cranial development, some diameters of the skull were significantly altered. Basically, cranial vault morphology fits apparently to the scaphocephaly, whereas the basic ranium and viscerocranium are altered only in minor degree

A preliminary study of three-dimensional reconstruction of the human osseous labyrinth from micro-computed tomography scans

The adult human temporal bone was investigated using micro-CT scans. Various aspects of the osseous labyrinth were presented in figures which are effect of the volume rendering. The 3D reconstructions were performed to visualize the cochlea and the semicircular canals embedded in the petrous bone. The final product of this study was a digital three-dimensional model of the entire osseous labyrinth which can be viewed at different angles on the computer screen

Possible compression of the atlantal segment of the vertebral artery in occipitalisation

The current study evaluates the passage of the atlantal segment of the vertebral artery through the atlas to the cranial cavity in the case of occipitalisation, and searches for potential bony obstacles that constrict the lumen of the vertebral artery. Morphometric analysis was performed of the ossified atlanto-occipital articulation of the dry adult male skull, particularly in the region of the posterior arch of the atlas. The distance between the floor of the right groove for the vertebral artery and the occipital bone was measured using a digital sliding caliper. On the left side, measurements of the diameters of the inlet and outlet of the canal for the vertebral artery were performed using the same technique. Fusion of the left portion of the posterior arch of the atlas with the occipital bone caused significant narrowing of the space around the normally existing groove for the vertebral artery, and converted it into the canal. The size of the intracranial opening of the canal for the vertebral artery was measured as 3.8 mm x 4.7 mm, whereas the inlet to the canal was 5.4 mm x 7.0 mm. The diameter of the canal decreases, particularly at the entrance into the cranial cavity; therefore, compression of the vertebral artery within the canal seems to be possible. (Folia Morphol 2011; 70, 4: 287–290

Accessory spine of the foramen ovale

The objective of this study was to provide a morphometrical analysis of the accessory spine which exists within the lumen of the foramen ovale, and to find out if that structure could mechanically irritate the mandibular nerve. A bifid spine was perceived in the macerated skull of an adult individual. It was located in the anterior part of the left foramen ovale. The overall length of the spine was measured as 1.8 mm. The spine has the homogenous structure, and show high level of mineralization. We conclude that the accessory spine did not compress the mandibular nerve, and the foramen ovale provided enough space for the nerve passage. Probably, these structures remained in anatomical accordance without causing any neurological symptoms

The ossified interclinoid ligament

The paper presents an anatomical description of the ossified interclinoid ligament which was found in a male human skull. In the case studied the ossified ligament exists as a bony bridge between the anterior and posterior clinoid processes on the left side of the skull. The length of this connection was measured as 5.0 mm, while its thickness was 3.2 mm. We conjecture that the presence of a considerably thick bony trabecula within the sella region might have had an impact on the course of the internal carotid artery or the oculomotor nerve, causing compression of these structures

An anatomical study of the pterygoalar bar and the pterygoalar foramen

The paper presents anatomical considerations on the pterygoalar bar and the pterygoalar foramen of the human skull. The pterygoalar bar is a bony bridge that stretches between the lateral pterygoid lamina and the greater wing of the sphenoid bone, while the space under this bar is termed the pterygoalar foramen. These structures were noted in 5 out of 70 investigated skulls. The length of the pterygoalar bar ranged from 4 to 8 mm, while the diameter of the pterygoalar foramen ranged from 7 to 11 mm. The presence of the pterygoalar bar is clinically important because it may disturb access to the foramen ovale during anaesthesia of the trigeminal nerve