Estimation of Age from Spheno-Occipital Synchondrosis Closure using Computed Tomography in Yemen

Abstract

Background: The spheno-occipital synchondrosis was chosen as an age marker of interest since past researches suggested that there is considerable variation in the time of closure which required further investigation.In order to obtain the most accurate estimations of age population specific data are required.Objective: The aim of the present study was to determine the chronology and pattern of union of the spheno-occipital synchondrosis among Yemeni subjects using CT scanning to assess if this age marker is a useful tool for age estimation. Subjects and Methods:In this cross-sectional study, a sample of 217 subjects of both sexes whose ages ranged between 15 and 25years was examined.The studied group was formed of 121 males and 96 females.The state of fusion of the SOS or basilar synchondrosis was examined as a biological age indicator using a high resolution multi-slice CT scans of the head. Results:Mean ages of open, semi-closed, closed sutures with scar and closed sutures without scar were 16, 18, 21.32 and 21.78years in males, and 15, 20, 21.56 and 20.41 in females, respectively.Complete fusion was seen at 16years old or above in males and 15years old or above in females.Spearman's correlation ratio coefficient showed a linear correlation between age and suture situation in both sexes (p<0.000* for both and rho =0.509 & 0.080 for males and females, respectively).Conclusion: Our findings indicated that the stage of fusion of the spheno-occipital synchondrosis using computed tomography could be a useful forensic tool to determine age in both sexes in Yemen population.

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