postsagittal

Postsagittal refers to a condition in which the sagittal suture, a fibrous joint located at the top of the skull, has fused or closed after the fontanelles (soft spots) have closed. This typically occurs in individuals who have reached skeletal maturity, usually around the age of 18 in females and 21 in males. The sagittal suture is one of the major sutures in the skull, and its closure marks the completion of skull growth and development.

The postsagittal period is characterized by the absence of significant skull growth, as the sutures between the skull bones have fused. This is in contrast to the presagittal period, during which the skull is still growing and the sutures are open. The closure of the sagittal suture is a normal part of the aging process and is not typically associated with any medical issues.

In some cases, the sagittal suture may not close properly, leading to a condition known as craniosynostosis. This condition can cause abnormal skull shape and may require surgical intervention. However, in most individuals, the closure of the sagittal suture is a natural and healthy part of the aging process.