Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026

19:53
Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
Summary
Researchers defined the surgical anatomy of the masseteric fascia and masseter muscle aponeurosis. A distinct, dense band covering the masseter muscle aponeurosis was identified and named the conjoined masseteric fascia.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Surgical Anatomy
- Head and Neck Anatomy
Background:
- Understanding the precise surgical anatomy of the lower face is crucial for aesthetic and reconstructive procedures.
- The masseteric fascia and its relationship to surrounding structures require detailed definition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To precisely define the surgical anatomy of the masseteric fascia, masseter muscle aponeurosis, and periosteum of the malar bone and zygomatic arch.
- To identify and describe any distinct anatomical structures within this region.
Main Methods:
- Dissection of fresh cadaver heads.
- Detailed anatomical description and identification of fascial layers and periosteum.
Main Results:
- A dense, unyielding band was identified covering the masseter muscle aponeurosis.
- This distinct band was named the conjoined masseteric fascia.
Conclusions:
- The conjoined masseteric fascia is a distinct anatomical entity.
- Accurate knowledge of this structure is important for surgical procedures involving the masseter muscle and zygomatic region.
Related Concept Videos
Muscles for Facial Expressions
The craniofacial muscles are a collection of approximately 20 thin skeletal muscles situated beneath the skin of the face and scalp. These muscles, primarily responsible for the vast array of human facial expressions, originate from the bones or fibrous structures of the skull and extend outwards to connect with the skin. While most skeletal muscles in the body are enveloped in thick fascia, facial muscles generally have a more delicate fascial covering, with the buccinator muscle being a...
Muscles that Move the Head
The muscles that move the head are a dynamic and complex group of structures that work together to facilitate a wide range of head movements, including rotation, flexion, extension, and lateral bending.
The bilateral sternocleidomastoid, or SCM, and the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles are significant head flexors. The SCM muscles originate at the sternum and clavicle and attach to the mastoid process of the temporal bone. The SCM contracts bilaterally to bend the head forward, whereas...
The bilateral sternocleidomastoid, or SCM, and the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles are significant head flexors. The SCM muscles originate at the sternum and clavicle and attach to the mastoid process of the temporal bone. The SCM contracts bilaterally to bend the head forward, whereas...
Muscles of the Anterior Neck
The anterior neck muscles are the group of muscles covering the front part of the neck. These muscles are classified into three subgroups. The first one is the superficial muscles, the most visible muscles in the front of the neck. It includes the platysma and sternocleidomastoid. The second group is the suprahyoid muscles, located above the hyoid bone. This group comprises the digastric, mylohyoid, geniohyoid, and stylohyoid. Lastly, the infrahyoid muscles are found below the hyoid bone and...
Cranial Bones: Superior and Posterior View
The superior view of the cranium shows the frontal and paired parietal bones.
The frontal bone is the single bone that forms the forehead. At its anterior midline, between the eyebrows, there is a slight depression called the glabella. The frontal bone also forms the supraorbital margin of the orbit. Near the middle of this margin is the supraorbital foramen, the opening that provides passage for a sensory nerve to the forehead. The frontal bone is thickened just above each supraorbital margin,...
The frontal bone is the single bone that forms the forehead. At its anterior midline, between the eyebrows, there is a slight depression called the glabella. The frontal bone also forms the supraorbital margin of the orbit. Near the middle of this margin is the supraorbital foramen, the opening that provides passage for a sensory nerve to the forehead. The frontal bone is thickened just above each supraorbital margin,...
Cranial Bones: Lateral View
The lateral view of the cranium is dominated by temporal, sphenoid, and ethmoid bones.
The temporal bone forms the lower lateral side of the skull. The temporal bone is subdivided into several regions. The flattened upper portion is the squamous portion of the temporal bone. Below this area and projecting anteriorly is the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, which forms the posterior portion of the zygomatic arch. Posteriorly is the mastoid portion of the temporal bone. Projecting...
The temporal bone forms the lower lateral side of the skull. The temporal bone is subdivided into several regions. The flattened upper portion is the squamous portion of the temporal bone. Below this area and projecting anteriorly is the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, which forms the posterior portion of the zygomatic arch. Posteriorly is the mastoid portion of the temporal bone. Projecting...

