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Some observations on the development of the human hyoid bone

J Koebke

    Anatomy and Embryology
    |June 12, 1978
    PubMed

    Insights

    The human hyoid bone develops an interzone between its body and greater cornua during chondrification. This study reveals this interzone can form a joint (diarthrosis) or persist as a cell line, explaining adult anatomy.

    Area of Science:

    • Anatomy
    • Embryology
    • Developmental Biology

    Background:

    • The human hyoid bone's development and adult structure are complex.
    • Understanding the developmental stages of the hyoid bone is crucial for anatomical accuracy.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the developmental process of the human hyoid bone.
    • To elucidate the formation of the interzone between the hyoid body and greater cornua.
    • To explain the embryological basis for the adult hyoid bone's structure.

    Main Methods:

    • Examination of human hyoid bone development across various stages.
    • Histological analysis of chondrification and interzone formation.
    • Observation of joint cavity development and cell persistence.

    Main Results:

    • A distinct interzone forms between the hyoid body and greater cornua during chondrification.
    • This interzone reduces in thickness during development.
    • Joint cavities or persistent cell lines are observed in fetuses and newborns, indicating diarthrosis formation.

    Conclusions:

    • The observed developmental stages represent the formation of a diarthrosis between the hyoid corpus and cornu majus.
    • Embryological findings confirm the adult connection of the lesser horn to the cornu majus, not the body.

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