Tuberculum sellae

The tuberculum sellae is a notable anatomical feature located in the human skull. It is part of the sphenoid bone, which is a complex bone situated at the base of the skull. The tuberculum sellae plays a crucial role in the structure and protection of the pituitary gland, which is housed in the sella turcica, a saddle-shaped depression in the sphenoid bone.

Anatomy

The tuberculum sellae is positioned anteriorly to the sella turcica and forms the anterior boundary of this depression. It is a small, rounded eminence that contributes to the overall structure of the middle cranial fossa.

Sphenoid bone, anterior view

The sphenoid bone itself is a butterfly-shaped bone that contributes to the floor of the cranial cavity. The tuberculum sellae is located between the anterior clinoid processes, which are bony projections that extend from the sphenoid bone and provide attachment points for the tentorium cerebelli, a fold of dura mater that separates the cerebrum from the cerebellum.

Function

The primary function of the tuberculum sellae is to provide structural support to the sella turcica, thereby protecting the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland, often referred to as the "master gland," is a critical component of the endocrine system, responsible for the secretion of various hormones that regulate numerous bodily functions.

Clinical Significance

The tuberculum sellae is of clinical importance due to its proximity to the pituitary gland and the optic chiasm, where the optic nerves partially cross. Lesions or abnormalities in this area, such as tuberculum sellae meningiomas, can lead to significant clinical symptoms, including visual disturbances and endocrine dysfunctions.

Base of the skull, inferior view

Meningiomas in this region can compress the optic chiasm, leading to visual field defects such as bitemporal hemianopsia. Surgical approaches to this area require careful navigation to avoid damage to the optic nerves and the pituitary gland.

Surgical Considerations

Surgical intervention in the region of the tuberculum sellae often involves a transsphenoidal approach, which allows access to the sella turcica through the sphenoid sinus. This approach minimizes damage to surrounding brain tissue and is commonly used for the removal of pituitary tumors.

Surgical view of the sella turcica

Related Pages

• Sella turcica
• Pituitary gland
• Sphenoid bone
• Optic chiasm
• Meningioma