MRI Scan Sella

The sella (sella turcica) on MRI is the bony pituitary fossa in the sphenoid bone that contains the pituitary gland and related structures. MRI assesses its size, shape, gland signal, and contrast enhancement to detect pituitary adenomas, cysts, hemorrhage, or empty sella. Coronal and sagittal T1-weighted pre- and post-contrast images best demonstrate gland anatomy and lesions.

MRI sella (pituitary) costs vary by country and facility. In India private centers commonly charge roughly ₹2,000–10,000. In the UK it’s provided free via the NHS but private scans cost about £200–£800. In the US out‑of‑pocket prices typically range from $400 to $3,500. Final price depends on contrast use, scanner strength (1.5T vs 3T), radiologist fees, and insurance.

The sella (short for sella turcica) is a saddle-shaped bony depression in the sphenoid bone at the skull base that houses and protects the pituitary gland. It provides structural support and is an important landmark on brain imaging; enlargement or deformity of the sella can indicate pituitary tumors, cysts, or other sellar-region pathology affecting hormonal function and nearby structures.

Empty sella syndrome is often an incidental finding and usually causes no symptoms. However, if the pituitary is displaced or a coexisting pituitary lesion compresses the optic chiasm, it can cause visual problems—blurred vision, reduced acuity, visual field defects (classically bitemporal hemianopia), or double vision. Any visual change warrants prompt neuro‑ophthalmic and endocrine evaluation.

Empty sella is not a brain tumor. It’s an imaging finding where the sella turcica is partially or completely filled with cerebrospinal fluid, flattening the pituitary gland. Often incidental and harmless, it can sometimes cause hormonal imbalances or headaches. Management usually involves endocrine evaluation and monitoring; treatment targets any hormone problems rather than surgery unless complications arise.

Sella (short for sella turcica) is a saddle-shaped depression in the sphenoid bone at the skull base that houses and protects the pituitary gland. It sits in the skull midline between the tuberculum and dorsum sellae. Clinically, sella size and shape are evaluated because enlargement, erosion or an “empty sella” can signal pituitary tumors, cysts or other sellar pathology.