Fact or artifact: an analysis of artifact in high-resolution computed tomographic scanning of the sella.

Computed tomography (CT) artifacts within the sella turcica, associated with the bones of the skull base, were identified and examined by use of a human skull phantom immersed in water. These artifacts were identified in 63% of 27 clinical high-resolution CT scans performed on patients with suspected sellar or parasellar pathology. Intrasellar artifacts may be minimized or eliminated by careful choice of scanning plane. Identification and elimination of intrasellar CT artifacts are necessary for accurate interpretation of sellar image.