Cranial Growth and Ageing Flashcards
At what age do the occipital bones fuse?
4-6 years
What is the spheno-occipital synchondrosis?
Cartilaginous union between the body of the sphenoid bone and the basilar portion of the occipital bone
When does the spheno-occipital sunchondrosis close?
between 16-25 years
What is the anterior fontanelle?
Soft diamond shaped part between the frontal and parietal bones whoch allows for cranial growth
When does the anterior fontanelle close?
98% close by 2 years of age
What is the metopic suture?
Connective tissue which separates the two halves of the frontal bone
When does the metopic suture close, and what happens to it?
Closes around 9 months and disappears at 6 years
What is the mastoid process?
Conical prominence projecting from the undersurface of the mastoid portion of the temporal bone
Where is the mastoid process located?
behind the external acoustic meatus
bony bulge behind ear
When does the mastoid process become distinct?
about 2 years
What age is the tympanic ring around?
3-9 months
Where can the tympanic ring be found?
Surrounding the external auditory canal
What is the mental symphysis?
Unfused centre of the mandible
When does the mental symphysis disappear?
By 7-8 months
How does the angle of the mandible start out?
as markedly obtuse but becomes more acute as babies age
