Skull changes with intrasellar cisternal herniation (empty sella)

Abstract

Forty-seven cases with intrasellar cisternal herniation (empty sella) examined by plain X-ray of the skull and pneumoencephalography have been reviewed. Although the diagnosis may frequently be anticipated from the plain X-ray findings, further studies are necessary to establish the diagnosis. Also the type of herniation, whether horizontal, anterior or complete, may be anticipated from the appearance of the sella. Signs attributable to increased intracranial pressure, mainly erosion of the dorsum sellae, were found in about half of the cases.