DETERMINATION OF AGE BY STUDY OF SKULL SUTURES

Abstract

Objectives: The objectives of this study are to determine the age by study of skull sutures and comparing the age with standard data mentioned in different textbooks and previous studies. Material and Method: Present study based on closure of skull sutures among 220 cases between age group of 15 - 70 years with age interval of 5 years and 20 cases from each age group were studied, who were exposed to digital X-ray of skull for closure of suture ecto-cranially for age estimation. The closure of sagittal, coronal, lambdoid, parieto-mastoid, parieto-temporal (squamous) and baso-occiput with baso-sphenoid sutures were studied and compared with standard data mentioned in different textbooks and previous studies. Age of each individual studied was confirmed from birth certificate, service record, driving license, passport, ration card or voter’s card. Result: Each suture was found to close at particular age group. Suture closure occurred for sagittal, lambdoid, coronal, parieto-mastoid, parieto-temporal and baso-occiput with baso-sphenoid at age group of 50-60 years, 45-55 years, 50-60 years, 55-70 years, 60-70 years and 18-25 years respectively. Conclusion: Age of closure of sagittal, coronal, lambdoid, parieto-mastoid, parieto-temporal and baso-occiput with baso-sphenoid suture was matching with standard data given in most of the textbooks and other studies. Sutures closure occurred from their endo-cranial to ecto-cranial aspects. Closure of skull sutures occurred earlier in male than in females. The most successful estimate was done from sagittal suture, next lambdoid suture and then coronal suture.