Clivus (anatomy)

Clivus is a part of the human skull, specifically a part of the cranial base that slopes obliquely backward. It is located near the brainstem and is a significant anatomical landmark in the head and neck region.

Anatomy

The clivus is a shallow depression in the skull base that slopes backwards, lying behind the dorsum sellae at the junction of the sphenoid bone and the occipital bone. It forms a gradual sloping process at the anterior part of the foramen magnum that houses the basilar artery.

Clinical significance

The clivus is an important landmark in various surgical procedures. It is also involved in several pathological conditions. For instance, chordoma, a rare type of cancer, can occur in the clivus. Clival fractures, although rare, can occur and are usually associated with high-energy trauma.

Imaging

The clivus can be visualized through various imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These imaging techniques are crucial in diagnosing pathologies involving the clivus.

See also

• Basilar artery
• Chordoma
• Foramen magnum
• Sphenoid bone
• Occipital bone

References

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