The pre-natal development and osseous growth of the human cerebellar field

Structured Abstract Authors – Lomholt JF, Nolting D, Hansen BF, Stoltze K, Kjaer I Objectives – To describe the pre-natal development of the bones that enclose the cerebellum and part of the brain stem (the neuro-osteological cerebellar field) in the mid-sagittal plane. Design – Radiographic, cephalometric and histologic examination of normal pre-natal human fetuses; 50 normal fetuses, with crown-rump length of 18–227 mm and approximate gestational age from 6 to 26 weeks. Results – The cerebellar field expressed extensive growth during development both sagittally and vertically. Because of changes in shape, the field was displaced in an anterio-caudal direction. Conclusion – In the present study we recorded normal measurements of size, shape and position of the cerebellar field. These standards can be used as references in skeletal analysis of cases with cranial abnormalities and cerebellar malformations.