Computed Tomography-Based Morphometric Analysis of Ossification Centers of Lesser Wings of Sphenoid Bone in Human Fetuses

<b>Objectives</b>: The aim of the present study was to examine the growth dynamics of the ossification centers of the lesser wings of the sphenoid bone in the human fetus based on linear, planar, and volumetric parameters. <b>Methods</b>: The examinations were carried out on 37 human fetuses of both sexes (16 males and 21 females) after 18-30 weeks of gestation. These were obtained from spontaneous miscarriages and preterm deliveries. Using computed tomography (CT), digital image analysis software, 3D reconstruction, and statistical methods, the size and growth patterns of the ossification centers of the lesser wings of the sphenoid bone were evaluated. <b>Results</b>: All morphometric parameters-length, width, projected surface area, and volume-of the ossification centers of the lesser wings of the sphenoid bone increased proportionally with gestational age. No significant sex-related or lateral differences were observed. <b>Conclusions</b>: The numerical data obtained from CT-based analysis and the observed growth trends of the ossification centers of the lesser wings of the sphenoid bone may serve as age-specific normative references. These findings may support clinicians-including anatomists, radiologists, obstetricians, pediatricians, and craniofacial surgeons-in the assessment of normal fetal cranial development and the early diagnosis of congenital craniofacial anomalies.