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Abstract:
An anomalous muscle was found in the infratemporal fossa of a male cadaver of advanced age. This formation passed between fixed bony attachments at the infratemporal crest (greater wing of the sphenoid) and the inferior part of the lateral pterygoid plate. The muscle was not atrophied but functional significance was not clear.
Insights
An unusual muscle was discovered in the infratemporal fossa of an elderly male cadaver. Its function remains unclear, though it appeared to be functional and not atrophied.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Human Anatomy
- Surgical Anatomy
Background:
- The infratemporal fossa is a complex anatomical region housing important nerves and muscles.
- Variations in craniofacial musculature can impact surgical approaches and understanding of biomechanics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document and describe a previously unreported anomalous muscle in the human infratemporal fossa.
- To detail the anatomical location and bony attachments of this anomalous muscle.
Main Methods:
- A detailed gross anatomical dissection was performed on a male cadaver.
- The anomalous muscle's origin, insertion, and relationship to surrounding structures were meticulously recorded.
Main Results:
- An anomalous muscle was identified in the infratemporal fossa of an elderly male cadaver.
- The muscle originated from the infratemporal crest (greater wing of the sphenoid) and inserted on the inferior lateral pterygoid plate.
- The muscle was observed to be non-atrophied, suggesting potential functional relevance.
Conclusions:
- This finding represents a rare anatomical variation in the muscles of mastication.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the functional significance and clinical implications of this anomalous infratemporal muscle.