The morphometrical and topographical evaluation of the superior gluteal nerve in the prenatal period.

INTRODUCTION: Advances in medical science are helping to break down the barriers to surgery. In the near future, neonatal or in utero operations will become the standard for the treatment of defects in the human motor system. In order to carry out such procedures properly, detailed knowledge of fetal anatomy is necessary. It must be presented in an attractive way not only for anatomists but also for potential clinicians who will use this knowledge in contact with young patients. This work responds to this demand and presents the anatomy of the superior gluteal nerve in human fetuses in an innovative way. The aim of this work is to determine the topography and morphometry of the superior gluteal nerve in the prenatal period. We chose the superior gluteal nerve as the object of our study because of its clinical significance-for the practice of planning and carrying out hip surgery and when performing intramuscular injections. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was carried out on 40 human fetuses (20 females and 20 males) aged from 15 to 29 weeks (total body length v-pl from 130 to 345 mm). Following methods were used: anthropological, preparatory, image acquisition with a digital camera, computer measurement system Scion for Windows 4.0.3.2 Alpha and Image J (accuracy up to 0.01 mm without damaging the unique fetal material) and statistical methods. RESULTS: The superior gluteal nerve innervates three physiologically significant muscles of the lower limb's girdle: gluteus medius muscle, gluteus minimus muscle and tensor fasciae latae muscle. In this study the width of the main trunk of the nerve supplying each of these three muscles was measured and the position of the nerve after leaving the suprapiriform foramen was observed. A unique typology of the distribution of branches of the examined nerve has been created. The bushy and tree forms were distinguished. There was no correlation between the occurrence of tree and bushy forms with the body side (p > 0.05), but it was shown that the frequency of the occurrence of the bushy form in male fetuses is significantly higher than in female fetuses (p < 0.01). Proportional and symmetrical nerve growth dynamics were confirmed and no statistically significant sexual dimorphism was demonstrated (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The anatomy of the superior gluteal nerve during prenatal period has been determined. We have identified two morphological forms of it. We have observed no differences between right and left superior gluteal nerve and no sexual dimorphism. The demonstrated high variability of terminal branches of the examined nerve indicates the risk of neurological complications in the case of too deep intramuscular injections and limits the range of potential surgical interventions in the gluteal region. The above research may be of practical importance, for example for hip surgery.

Mathematical models of human cerebellar development in the fetal period.

The evaluation of cerebellar growth in the fetal period forms a part of a widely used examination to identify any features of abnormalities in early stages of human development. It is well known that the development of anatomical structures, including the cerebellum, does not always follow a linear model of growth. The aim of the study was to analyse a variety of mathematical models of human cerebellar development in fetal life to determine their adequacy. The study comprised 101 fetuses (48 males and 53 females) between the 15th and 28th weeks of fetal life. The cerebellum was exposed and measurements of the vermis and hemispheres were performed, together with statistical analyses. The mathematical model parameters of fetal growth were assessed for crown-rump length (CRL) increases, transverse cerebellar diameter and ventrodorsal dimensions of the cerebellar vermis in the transverse plane, and rostrocaudal dimensions of the cerebellar vermis and hemispheres in the frontal plane. A variety of mathematical models were applied, including linear and non-linear functions. Taking into consideration the variance between models and measurements, as well as correlation parameters, the exponential and Gompertz models proved to be the most suitable for modelling cerebellar growth in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. However, the linear model gave a satisfactory approximation of cerebellar growth, especially in older fetuses. The proposed models of fetal cerebellar growth constructed on the basis of anatomical examination and objective mathematical calculations could be useful in the estimation of fetal development.

Mathematical modelling of the growth of human fetus anatomical structures.

The goal of this study was to present a procedure that would enable mathematical analysis of the increase of linear sizes of human anatomical structures, estimate mathematical model parameters and evaluate their adequacy. Section material consisted of 67 foetuses-rectus abdominis muscle and 75 foetuses- biceps femoris muscle. The following methods were incorporated to the study: preparation and anthropologic methods, image digital acquisition, Image J computer system measurements and statistical analysis method. We used an anthropologic method based on age determination with the use of crown-rump length-CRL (V-TUB) by Scammon and Calkins. The choice of mathematical function should be based on a real course of the curve presenting growth of anatomical structure linear size Ύ in subsequent weeks t of pregnancy. Size changes can be described with a segmental-linear model or one-function model with accuracy adequate enough for clinical purposes. The interdependence of size-age is described with many functions. However, the following functions are most often considered: linear, polynomial, spline, logarithmic, power, exponential, power-exponential, log-logistic I and II, Gompertz's I and II and von Bertalanffy's function. With the use of the procedures described above, mathematical models parameters were assessed for V-PL (the total length of body) and CRL body length increases, rectus abdominis total length h, its segments hI, hII, hIII, hIV, as well as biceps femoris length and width of long head (LHL and LHW) and of short head (SHL and SHW). The best adjustments to measurement results were observed in the exponential and Gompertz's models.

Anatomy of the falcine sinus during the prenatal period.

BACKGROUND: The falcine sinus in the falx cerebri is rarely encountered in adults, appearings in approximately 2.1% of CT examinations of adult patients. Some authors have studied the plexus rather than the sinus, a rare form of the venous pathway between the layers of the cerebral falx, which connects the superior sagittal sinus with the inferior sagittal sinus and the straight sinus. The aim of this study was to analyse the anatomy of the falcine sinus in the prenatal period, which will fill a gap in the literature. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study consisted of 50 foetuses with a v-tube length of 89-229 mm and the equivalent of 15-28 weeks of intrauterine development on the Scammon and Calkins scale. METHOD: Blood vessels were filled with latex LBS 3022, and analysis was performed using the Scion Image for Windows 4.0.3.2 and Image J. We used various linear and nonlinear transformations. RESULTS: In 20 cases, intraventricular and periventricular haemorrhages were detected. The other cases showed sinuses in the cerebral falx, specifically in the back parts of the falx, and were described as oblique, straight, wavy, or network. A very rich venous network is located around the superior sagittal sinus; the middle section grew twice its length and the back section grew three times its width, reaching the lowest areas of the cerebral falx, the inferior sagittal sinus, and the straight sinus. Anastomotic intersinual loops appeared. There were three forms of venous weave crescents: isolated limited to the area adjacent to the superior sagittal sinus, partly merging with the straight sinus and a fully developed falcine sinus, which appeared in the older age groups with the most primitive forms being plexiform. Their remains a plurality of channels within the same superior sagittal sinus that show a predominance in the posterior segment. CONCLUSION: The location of the falcine sinus has been mostly associated with the rear one-third of the cerebral falx and should be considered during neurosurgery, because the front two-thirds of the cerebral falx are called the "safe zone". Knowledge of the falcine sinus anatomy is important for descriptions in neuroimaging examinations.

Assessment of foetal age on the basis of the selected dimensions of the thorax.

BACKGROUND: The correct definition of foetal age is a substantial problem in forensic medicine, gynaecology, obstetrics and anthropology. OBJECTIVES: The goal of the study was the mathematical assessment of the foetal age with the use of thorax selected dimensions. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The material consisted of 110 foetuses aged 4-7 months of foetal life, including 50 females in the CRL range: 80-233 mm. The following methods were incorporated: preparation, anthropological, image digital acquisition, Image J computer system measurements and statistical analysis. For each foetus the following sizes were taken: crump-rump length - CRL (v-tub), total body length - v-pl as well as brachial circumference - BC, thoracic circumference - TC and clavicular length - CLA. RESULTS: Six monofunctional mathematical models were elaborated: Bertalanffy growth curve, three Gompertz function based models and two exponential models to assess examined parameters increase along with t age. Model no. 3 for Gompertz function revealed the biggest consistency with v-pl measurements for every determination ratio R2 = 0.9944 for exponential model R2 = 0.9917. Multiple regression analysis was used to elaborate mathematical formula to assess the foetal age (determination factor R2 = 0.9997) with BC, TC parameters. CONCLUSIONS: Examined parameters BC and TC were found useful in foetal age assessment in the evaluated age range. Elaborated mathematical model can be applied in clinical practice e.g. in foetal age ultrasound determination.

Assessment of growth dynamics of human cranium middle fossa in foetal period.

BACKGROUND: Available literature analysis demonstrated smallness of studies of cranial base. OBJECTIVES: The goal of the study was to analyse the medial fossa of the human cranium in the foetal period against other fossae. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Survey material consisted of 110 human foetuses at a morphological age of 16-28 weeks of foetal life, CRL 98-220 mm. Anthropological, preparation method, reverse method and statistical analysis were utilized. The survey incorporated the following computer programmes: Renishaw, TraceSurf, AutoCAD, CATIA. The reverse method seems especially interesting (impression with polysiloxane (silicone elastomer of high adhesive power used in dentistry) with 18 D 4823 activator. Elicited impression accurately reflected complex shape of cranium base. RESULTS: On assessing the relative rate of cranium medial fossa, the rate was found to be stable (linear model) for the whole of the analysed period and is 0.19%/week, which stands for the gradual and steady growth of the middle fossa in relation to the whole of the cranium base. At the same time, from the 16th till 28th week of foetal life, relative volume of the cranium middle fossa increases more intensively than cranium anterior fossa, whereas the cranium middle fossa volume as compared with the cranium posterior fossa is definitely slower. In the analysed period, the growth rate of the cranium base middle fossa was bigger in the 4th and 5th weeks than in the 6th and 7th weeks of foetal life. The investigations revealed cranium base asymmetry of the left side. Furthermore, the anterior fossae volume on the left side is significantly bigger than the one of the fossae on the right side. CONCLUSIONS: Volume growth rate is more intensive in the 4th and 5th than in the 6th and 7th weeks of foetal life. In the examined period, the relative growth rate of cranium base middle fossa is 0.19%/week and it is stable - linear model. The study revealed correlations in the form of mathematical models, which enabled foetuses age assessment.

Development of external surfaces of human cerebellar lobes in the fetal period.

In the fetal period, development of cerebellar lobes may proceed dissimilarly due to possible differentiated origins of the cells and diversified times of their migration to certain cerebellum regions. This can cause various growth trajectories for the external surfaces of cerebellar lobes. The goal of the study was to describe the development of the external surface of cerebellum lobes and fissures delineating them in the fetal period. The material consisted of 101 fetuses (48 males and 53 females)-crown rump length 89-229 mm corresponding to 15-28 weeks of fetal life. The methods were based on anthropometric measurements and preparation techniques combined with elicited image computer analysis. At the largest values of the cerebellum posterior lobe surface, the most dynamic growth rate was observed in the case of the anterior lobe. Among the cerebellar lobes, proportional change was observed as well as a gradual increase in anterior lobe surface area and a simultaneous decrease in the surface area of the flocculonodular lobe part of the cerebellum total external surface. This paper presents the different growth trajectories of cerebellar lobes and demonstrates the importance of the primary fissure as a delineating mark for two regions with different dynamics of development.

Morphometry of human musculus gluteus maximus in foetal period.

BACKGROUND: Magnus gluteal muscle (musculus gluteus maximus) belongs to the group of lower limb girdle muscles. It is one of the biggest muscles in human organism and is located mostly superficially in gluteal region. Literature provides discussion concerning its role in movement such as walking, running and climbing as well as plastic surgery in reconstructive operations of trochanter. Magnus gluteal muscle plays an important role in orthopaedic surgery. OBJECTIVES: The goal of the study was to analyse the human magnus gluteal muscle in the foetal period. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The analysis was carried out on 154 muscles originating from human foetuses (including 30 females - 39%) belonging to the collection of Normal Anatomy Dept. of Wroclaw Medical University. The body length was assessed with the use of vertex-tuberal (v-tub) length and it was included in the range 107-205 mm, which corresponds with the period 17-30 weeks of foetal life. The survey incorporated the following methods: anthropological, preparational and image acquisition which was acquired with the use of high-resolution digital camera. In order to take computer measurements, the following systems were exploited: Image J and Scion for Windows. Statistical analysis was carried out with the use of STATISTICA package v. 9 (t-Student test). RESULTS: The magnus gluteal muscle was analysed in respect to sexual dimorphism and symmetry. On the basis of elicited parameters, the model of muscle increase in foetal period was defined. The following measurements were taken: v-tub, vertex-plantare (v-pl), body mass, muscle particular sides lengths and distance between corresponding measurement points. In every muscle, the lengths of four sections forming the circumference as well as the area were measured. CONCLUSIONS: No difference was observed in foetal magnus gluteal muscle sexual dimorphism or symmetry (p > 0.05). The correlation diagram was used to calculate the muscle weekly increase in foetal period. The results suggest that lesions and pathologies in the region of magnus gluteal muscle are acquired in post foetal period.

Variability of the trunks and divisions of the brachial plexus in human fetuses.

BACKGROUND: The brachial plexus is an important part of peripheral nervous systems. The studies of variation of the brachial plexus and its parts in the prenatal period are extremely rare. OBJECTIVES: The goal of the study was to assess brachial plexus trunk variability and their divisions in human fetuses. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Examinations were carried out on a total of 220 brachial plexuses derived from 110 fetuses aged 4-7 months, including 50 females (45.45%) in a CRL range of 80-233 mm. The following methods were incorporated into the study: anthropological, dissection, digital image acquisition and statistical methods. Symmetry and sexual dimorphism was observed. RESULTS: Trunk variations were observed in 12 (5.45%) plexus divisions as well as in 74 (33.6%) variants cases. Variants were equally common in both genders and on both sides of the body. Variants of individual trunks were of a similar percentage, usually an observed central trunk formed by nerve roots C7 and C8. Anterior division of the middle trunk (ADMT) was the most variable division, observed in 63 (28.63%) cases. There was no asymmetry and sexual dimorphism. CONCLUSIONS: Trunk variants are rare and anomalies of divisions were observed in one-third of cases, regardless of the side of the body and sex. Brachial plexus variation recognition is important from a clinical point of view.

A quantitative comparison of dura mater tissue structures measured with atomic force microscopy.

BACKGROUND: The growth of a human embryo is a very sophisticated process. Understanding the way it proceeds is a key factor in pathology preventing and treating diseases. Therefore one needs to use advanced to tools and methods to investigate various aspects of the anatomy and physiology of humans during the first months of growth. OBJECTIVES: This work is focused on the structure of dura mater tissue, one of the membranes protecting the brain, which can be responsible for a number of health issues if it develops abnormally. The aim of the work was to observe dura mater tissue structure with atomic force microscopy and to provide a quantitative method of discrimination of both the periosteal and meningeal layers in a 6-month-old human embryo. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The measurements were performed with atomic force microscopy, in air, using tapping mode. The sample was stored in formaldehyde and dried prior to the measurements. RESULTS: The results obtained permitted observation of the structure of the tissue, in particular the presence of collagen fibers. By applying various image analysis tools, quantitative descriptions of both layers were created in order to distinguish them. CONCLUSIONS: The experiment proved that atomic force microscopy can be a useful tool in the investigation of the development process of the dura mater tissue in terms of the appearance of differences related to various functions of the periosteal and meningeal layers.

Mathematical models of brachial plexus development during the fetal period: clinical aspects.

BACKGROUND: The brachial plexus is an important anatomical structure. It can be damaged in both the perinatal and postnatal periods as a result of injury. The available literature does not provide much discussion of the development of the brachial plexus in human fetuses. OBJECTIVES: The goal of the study was a mathematical analysis of fetal brachial plexus growth and geometry. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study examined 220 human brachial plexuses, derived from 110 fetuses (including 50 females - 45.45%) aged 14-32 weeks of fetal life, with a crown-rump length (CRL) ranging from 80 to 233 mm. Anthropological methods, preparation, digital image acquisition, the Image J measurement tool, the Scion Image for Windows program and statistical methods were applied. In each fetus, somatic as well as linear parameters were observed: lengths, diameters and distances between the nerves making up the brachial plexus geometry. RESULTS: In the majority of the linear parameters analyzed, no sexual dimorphism or asymmetry were observed. The following asymmetries and sexual dimorphisms appear to be significant from the clinical point of view: asymmetry in the length of the C7 and Th1 nerve left radix, asymmetry in the diameters of the musculocutaneous nerve on the left and the median and ulnar nerves on the right; as well as an increased distance between nerves roots in female fetuses. The weekly growth of individual parts of the plexus varied, as did the correlation ratios among them. The most rapid growth was observed between the 14th and 18th weeks, and the slowest between the 24th and 28th weeks. Four formulae were used in the mathematical growth model: linear regression, logarithmic function, the von Bertalanffy growth model and the Gompertz curve. CONCLUSIONS: The prenatal development of the brachial plexus is not constant. The applied mathematical functions proved useful in describing its growth rate.

Brachial plexus variations during the fetal period.

The brachial plexus is an important nervous system structure. It can be injured during the perinatal period and by postnatal damage. The goal of this study was to assess human fetal brachial plexus variability. A total of 220 brachial plexuses were surgically prepared from 110 human fetuses aged 14-32 weeks of fetal life (50 females and 60 males) ranging in CRL from 80 to 233 mm. The study incorporated the following methods: dissectional and anthropological, digital image acquisition, digital image processing using Image J and GIMP software, and statistical methods (Statistica 9.0). Symmetry and sexual dimorphism were examined. Anomalies of the brachial plexuses were observed in 117 (53.18 %) cases. No sexual dimorphism was found. It was observed that cord variations occurred more often on the left side. Division variants (33.64 %) occurred most often, but also cords (18.18 %) as well as root nerves and terminal ramifications (15.90 %) were found. Trunk anomalies were rare and occurred in only 5.45 % of plexuses. Three height types of median nerve roots in combination with the nerve were distinguished. In one-third of cases, median nerve root connections were found below the axillary fossa and even half in the proximal part of the humerus. In conclusion, the brachial plexus was characterized for anatomical structural variability. Most often division and cord variations were observed. Anomalies occurred regardless of sex or body side except for cord variants. Brachial plexus variation recognition is significant from the neurosurgical and traumatological point of view.

Anatomical variability of median nerve formation in human foetuses in clinical aspect.

BACKGROUND: The median nerve is an important nerve leaving the brachial plexus. Median nerve damages may result from tunnel syndromes or injuries. The nerve anatomical variants are of great clinical importance in hand surgery. OBJECTIVES: Clinical evaluation of median nerve divergence from brachial plexus morphological variability in foetal period. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The material consisted of 220 brachial plexus sections derived from 110 foetuses aged 14-32 weeks of foetal life (50 females and 60 males, in CRL: 80-233 mm). The survey incorporated the following methods: dissection, anthropological, image digital acquisition, Image J computer transformation system, GIMP programme and statistical methods. Typology assessment was based on 0/1 system. Sexual dimorphism and symmetry were examined. RESULTS: Median nerve left directly lateral cord in 5 cases. In 59 (26.81%) plexuses, anterior division of middle trunk co-created median nerves anomalies. The total of 9 types of anterior division of middle trunk as well as of median nerve were distinguished. Median nerve double root leaving lateral cord was observed in 10 (9.09%) cases, whereas triple lateral root was seen in one case. In 1/3 of the examined plexuses, median nerve roots combined to form the nerve beneath humeral bone head and even in ½ of the bone distal length (type II and III). Type II prevailed more often on the left side. CONCLUSIONS: Median nerve roots as well as the median nerve itself are characteristic for significant morphological variability. Nerve roots low junction into median nerve is clinically favourable as it can prevent nerve damage during injuries.

Architecture of cerebellomedullary cistern structures during foetal period.

Structures of arachnoid in posterior cranial fossa have been examined during prenatal period. 100 foetuses were examined within IV up to VII month with CRL from 130 mm to 220 mm. Cuts were performed with especially constructed device what enabled ideal cross-section without disturbing of structures of arachnoid of dura mater. Image acquisition was done with the help of digital camera. The very fine structures spanned between posterior cranial fossa and cerebellum and brain stem were made visible. They are characteristics for prenatal period solely. This construction enables light weight elasticity and probably it increases strength as well as stability of circulation. Cross-section of observed structures has geometry of tangent circles with different diameters. Described structure fills entirely space situated outside of holes of posterior cranial fossa. It has the form of lattice with longitudinal meshes. Such structures were formed for foetuses with CRL - 140 mm and this was maintained up to VII month with CRL - 230 mm. Geometry of observed structures resembles Apollonian circles. There are many variations due to individual differences of foetuses. In turn power exponent for Applonian circles seems to be much more general.

Morphological assessment of craniovetebral junction development in the prenatal period.

BACKGROUND: Because of numerous abnormalities of craniovertebraljunction development observed in the prenatal period, the region has been studied thoroughly in order to elucidate the mechanism of axial differentiation, dependence of vertebral morphology on the development of ossification centers and the mechanisms regulating the dynamics of growth. AIM: Analysis of morphological changes of the craniovertebral junction taking place during the prenatal period by quantitative assessment of some developmental changes such as growth rate, sexual dimorphism, interdependence of the analyzed parameters, taking into consideration the variable geometry of the studied area. MATERIAL/METHODS: he study was carried out on 48 fetuses (22 male, 26 female) of 86-212mm crown-rump length (CRL) range. The applied methods included: anthropometry, precise measurements, as well as trigonometric calculation of angles. RESULTS: All the investigated parameters demonstrated a strong, statistically significant correlation with CRL. No statistical significance of sexual dimorphism and differences between left- and right-sided measurements was demonstrated. The development rate indexes for the height of C1,C2 posterior vertebral arches, unlike those for the transversal dimensions of C1,C2 posterior vertebral arches, decrease after 5 months of gestational age. Little variability of the angles determined by geometrical reconstruction evidences close interdependence in the development of the analyzed craniovertebral junction elements. CONCLUSIONS: Geometrical configuration of the craniovertebraljunction during the fetal period is constant, with growth isometry preserved throughout intrauterine development. The occipital bone and Cl,1C2 cervical vertebrae are closely correlated according to structural and functional dependences.

Geometrical assessment of the foetal lumbar vertebral column -- clinical implications.

The neural arches, transverse processes, spinous processes, and superior and inferior articular processes of each of the 5 lumbar vertebrae can often be found under the common heading of 'posterior element'. The aim of our study was to assess the changes in geometry of the posterior elements of the foetal lumbar vertebrae during the foetal period. A total of 50 human foetuses, both female and male, from natural abortions, C-R length ranging from 58 to 220 mm, were examined. The methodology of the research included classical anatomical preparation, detailed measurements of the structural elements of the lumbar vertebrae and statistical analysis. Geometrical reconstruction was subsequently performed. The shape of the posterior elements changed gradually from wide and massive to slender. We observed a descending sequence of these alterations, the first vertebra to change being L1, with L5 the last. The dynamic of the change was at its greatest during the first 4 weeks of the period evaluated. On the basis of our observations we concluded that the geometry of the posterior elements of the lumbar vertebrae undergoes a process of a great transformation during the foetal period, a process which progresses dynamically until the 14th week of intra-uterine development. The associations with micro-angiogenesis, the ossification process and the notion of structural adaptation of the lumbar spine to heightening mechanical stress are also discussed.

Ossification process and lumbar spine morphology in the prenatal period.

BACKGROUND: Developmental abnormalities are the causes of numerous pathologies affecting the lumbar segment of the vertebral column. The aim of our study was metrologic assessment and analysis of lumbar vertebral column angioarchitecture during fetal life with particular emphasis on the description of vasculature of ossification centers of vertebral arches and bodies. MATERIAL/METHODS: The study was carried out on 30 fetuses with crown-rump length range of 31-180 mm. Vasculature of the ossification centers was studied using Pickworth's method and computed image analysis techniques in Imtron and Scion for Windows 2001 systems. The analysis involved the use of filters, binarization, linear and non-linear transformations. The assessment of morphology of lumbar spine structural elements was based on detailed measurements and statistical analysis of results. RESULTS: The analysis of vascular system of the ossification centers revealed the presence of numerous sinuses of various morphology. Their long axes were oriented in accordance with the directions of growth. The vasculature of the vertebral arch and body centers was characterized by a laminar structure. Centrally located sinuses and arteriovenous plexuses were covered by disseminated complexes of small blood vessels forming a cortex. The ossification centers were usually supplied with blood from other sources than cartilaginous elements. The analysis of metrological data demonstrated a marked domination of the L2 vertebra. CONCLUSIONS: Ossification of the lumbar vertebral column occurs in one rostro-caudal direction, The vasculature of the centers adjusts its morphology to the growth directions and not tendencies characterizing the object. The ossification process is characterized by marked autonomy and specific regulation mechanisms.

Morphology of the Willis chords in the superior sagittal sinus during various periods of life.

UNLABELLED: Numerous fibrous elements known as the Willis chords are situated in the light of the superior sagittal sinus. The paper is aimed at a comparative evaluation of the appearance of the Willis chords appearing in the superior sagittal sinus during various periods of human life and a determination of their role. The material comprises 200 brains at the foetal period as well as 200 adult and senile brains. The experimental methods include injection methods, infrared light, the Pickworth method and computer image analysis. During adulthood, various elements such as valvulae, divisions, plates, beams and arachnoidal granulation are situated in the light of superior sagittal sinus. The number of arachnoidal granulations increases continuously due to age, new ones appearing close to those already in existence and old granulation spreading. The superior sagittal sinus contains numerous valvulae similar to the feedback flaps typical for hydraulic systems. Divisions act as orifices which lead to a fall in pressure and induce blood into the sinus. Large differences between the cross-sections of meningeal veins and bridge veins were noticed, which resembles the structure of ejector. The blood flow in the bridge veins ending at the superior sagittal sinus is controlled by the valvulae and their geometrical form changes according to age. CONCLUSION: The Willis chords situated in the superior sagittal sinus may control the circulation. Their number grows with age and their morphology changes.

Preliminary metrological study of the lumbar vertebral column during the foetal period.

The aim of our study was to elaborate a scheme for the development of the particular elements of the lumbar vertebral column in the foetal period based on metrological data analysis. 30 human foetuses between 31 and 183 mm C-R length were examined. The whole vertebral column and lumbar segment length, intervertebral spaces and structural elements of each vertebra were measured. Statistical analysis was carried out of the data obtained. The development of the lumbar vertebral column during the foetal period is ongoing, although not in a proportional way. The percentage participation of the lumbar segment in the length of the whole vertebral column increased from 17.5 to 22%. The most intensive development of the particular elements resulted from the period between 60-170 mm. The intensive transversal growth of each vertebra began after 60 mm while the axial growth began after 110 mm CRL. The percentage participation of a single lumbar vertebra in the length of the whole lumbar segment decreased by approx. 5%. The largest contribution to the ossification centres was made in the areas of neural arches L1. Each structural element and the diameter of each lumbar vertebra is characterised by specific growth dynamics.

Planar measurements of foetal lateral ventricles.

To compare the linear dimensions (width) of the foetal atrium and occipital horns to their areas, 31 foetuses (15-24 weeks, C-R 12.5-23.5 mm) from spontaneous abortions were evaluated. Images of the axial sections of the brains were transferred to computer and Scion for Windows 98 software was used for image analysis. 11 brains appeared normal and 20 were abnormal (leukomalacia in 9 cases, periventricular and intraventricular haemorrhage in 6 cases, ventriculomegaly in 3 cases, colpocephaly in 1 case, vascular malformation in 1 case). High-range linear and planar asymmetries in the atrium and occipital horns were observed both in normal and abnormal brains. There was no close correlation between the width and the area of the structures under investigation, although it was stronger in case of the occipital horns. The wider occipital horns and atria often had a smaller area than the narrower ones. Some abnormal cerebral hemispheres had relatively narrow atria and occipital horns in comparison with their large areas. Further investigation should be carried out to assess the utility and potential superiority of planar measurements over linear in the image diagnosis of foetal ventricles.