Key Neurocranium Markings: Pituitary, Optic Canals, Ethmoid

Pituitary gland (hypophysis): pea-sized endocrine gland; rests in the middle of the brain in a saddle-shaped depression of the sphenoid bone.
Sella turcica: saddle-like cavity in the sphenoid bone; contains the pituitary gland.
Boundaries of sella turcica: tuberculum sellae (anterior) and dorsum sellae (posterior).
Hypophyseal fossa: the central depression within the sella turcica where the gland sits.
Key idea: sella turcica = seat (hypophyseal fossa) + surrounding ridge structures for the pituitary.

Optic nerves travel through the optic canals to the brain; these are circular openings in the sphenoid bone.
The optic canals transmit CN II from the eyes; they are located near the lesser wing of the sphenoid.
Quick check: be able to identify optic canals from either external or internal view.

Ethmoid bone: sixth bone of the neurocranium; located interior to the sphenoid bone.
In diagrams, the ethmoid is highlighted (green) and referenced relative to the sphenoid's greater wing and pterygoid process.
Relationship note: serves as a midline component between the nasal cavity and orbits.

Orbital plates (lamina orbitalis): two smooth surfaces on the medial walls of the orbits.
Location: part of the ethmoid bone; visible on intact skulls and on disarticulated ethmoid bone.

From the interior rear view of the neurocranium, two ethmoid markings are visible:
- Cribriform plate (with olfactory foramina) – roof of the nasal cavity.
- Crista galli – vertical projection for attachment of the falx cerebri.
These interior features are important for olfactory nerves and cranial base anatomy.