Spino-cranial Angle (SCA)

Last edit by Alaric Steinmetz on

The spino-cranial angle is used as a parameter of the sagittal balance of the spine.

Definition

The spino-cranial angle is measured between the tangent of the upper C7 endplate and the line from the midpoint of the C7 endplate to the sella turcica[^1].

Illustration

SCA
Illustration of the spino-cranial angle (SCA) in a sagittal X-ray. Figure adapted from Le Huec, Jean-Charles, et al. Sagittal balance of the spine. European spine journal 28 (2019). 1889-1905.

Normal Values

In asymptomatic persons, the spino-cranial angle averages 83° ± 9°[^1].