Diaphragma sellae
Diaphragma sellae
- Synonym: Sellar diaphragm
- Related terms: Diaphragma sellae; Sellar diaphragm
Definition
Diaphragma sellae, often considered an anterior extension of the tentorium cerebelli, is a double-layer of dura mater that overlays the sella turcica. This structure forms a roof over the sella turcica and attaches anteriorly to the tuberculum sellae, the raised front part of the sella turcica, and posteriorly to the dorsum sellae, the raised back part of the sella turcica. The diaphragma sellae covers the pituitary gland positioned within the hypophyseal fossa and features a small aperture allowing the pituitary stalk (or infundibulum) to pass through and connect with the base of the brain. Furthermore, the diaphragma sellae laterally extends to participate in forming the walls of the cavernous sinuses on either side. Its sensory innervation is provided by the ophthalmic (V1) division of the trigeminal nerve.
References
Shah, A. and Elsanafiry, M.S.M. Diaphragma sellae: Anatomical and surgical implication in surgery for pituitary adenomas–Highlighting contributions by Goel. (2018). Journal of Craniovertebral Junction & Spine, 9(3): pp.135.
Kekere, V. and Alsayouri, K. Anatomy, Head and Neck, Dura Mater. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545301/
Ghannam, J.Y. and Al Kharazi, K.A. Neuroanatomy, Cranial Meninges. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539882/
Snell, R.S. (2010). ‘Chapter 15: The meninges of the brain and the spinal cord’, in Clinical Neuroanatomy. (7th ed.) Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer Health/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, pp.427-444.
