Analysis of time of closure of the spheno-occipital synchondrosis using computed tomography

Abstract

Current knowledge concerning closure of the spheno-occipital synchondrosis is inadequate for age estimation purposes in that of the few detailed studies conducted, these demonstrate considerable variation concerning the age at which the synchondrosis commences and completes fusion, thus creating uncertainty for forensic investigators who may use this developmental feature for age determinations. The aim of the present study was to determine the sequence and timing of closure of the spheno-occipital synchondrosis for a large sample of a modern Australian population to assess if this age marker is a useful tool for age estimation for individuals around the age of 18 years. The sample consisted of 666 individuals in the age range 15-25 years, who were admitted to the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) mortuary and who had undergone routine full body multi-slice CT imaging. Results show that fusion was well underway by the age of 15 years and was complete by 17 years. Fusion begins superiorly and progresses inferiorly. Persistence of a scar at the site of fusion was demonstrated through to age 25 years. After the age of 16 years there was no significant difference in progress of fusion between males and females. The study showed that this age marker is of limited value for age estimations around the age of 18 years in this population.