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Neuroradiology

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01-11-2013 | Diagnostic Neuroradiology

The human foramen magnum—normal anatomy of the cisterna magna in adults

Authors: Nathaniel Whitney, Hai Sun, Jeffrey M. Pollock, Donald A. Ross

Published in: Neuroradiology | Issue 11/2013

Abstract

Introduction

The goal of this study was to radiologically describe the anatomical characteristics of the cisterna magna (CM) with regard to presence, dimension, and configuration.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 523 records were reviewed. We defined five CM types, the range of which covered all normal variants found in the study population. Characteristics of the CM were recorded and correlations between various posterior fossa dimensions and CM volume determined.

Results

There were 268 female (mean age 50.9 ± 16.9 years) and 255 male (mean age 54.1 ± 15.8 years) patients. CM volume was smaller in females than in males and correlated with age (Pearson correlation, r = 0.1494, p = 0.0006) and gender (unpaired t test, r ² = 0.0608, p < 0.0001). Clivus length correlated with CM volume (Pearson correlation, r = 0.211, p < 0.0001) and gender (unpaired t test, r ² = 0.2428, p < 0.0001). Tentorial angle did not correlate with CM volume (Pearson correlation, r = −0.0609, p < 0.1642) but did correlate with gender (unpaired t test, r ² = 0.0163, p < 0.0035). The anterior–posterior dimension of cerebrospinal fluid anterior to the brainstem correlated with CM volume (Pearson correlation, r = 0.181, p < 0.0001) and gender (unpaired t test, r ² = 0.0205, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The anatomical description and simple classification system we define allows for a more precise description of posterior fossa anatomy and could potentially contribute to the understanding of Chiari malformation anatomy and management.

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Title: The human foramen magnum—normal anatomy of the cisterna magna in adults
Authors: Nathaniel Whitney
Hai Sun
Jeffrey M. Pollock
Donald A. Ross
Publication date: 01-11-2013
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Neuroradiology / Issue 11/2013
Print ISSN: 0028-3940
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1920
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00234-013-1269-z

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Springer Medicine

The human foramen magnum—normal anatomy of the cisterna magna in adults

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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