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Study of pterygospinosus muscle in human fetuses
J R Mérida Velasco1, J F Rodríguez Vázquez, L Arraez Aybar
1Department of Morphological Sciences II, Faculty of Medicine, University Complutense, Madrid, Spain.
Insights
The pterygospinosus muscle in human fetuses connects the pterygoid process to Meckel
Area of Science:
- Human Anatomy
- Embryology
- Craniofacial Development
Background:
- The pterygospinosus muscle is a vestigial component of the masticatory musculature.
- Its anatomical course and functional significance in humans are not well-established.
- Understanding its development aids in comprehending evolutionary changes in the jaw.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the anatomical arrangement of the pterygospinosus muscle in human fetuses.
- To investigate the potential functional implications of this muscle's positioning.
- To analyze its relationships with adjacent neurovascular structures.
Main Methods:
- Dissection and morphological analysis of the pterygospinosus muscle in 5 human fetuses.
- Detailed examination of its origin, insertion, and course.
- Identification of associated nerves (mandibular nerve) and arteries (maxillary artery).
Main Results:
- The pterygospinosus muscle originates from the pterygoid process and inserts onto Meckel's cartilage.
- This arrangement suggests a potential role in the development or function of the middle ear joint.
- Observed relationships with branches of the mandibular nerve and maxillary artery were documented.
Conclusions:
- The pterygospinosus muscle's attachment to Meckel's cartilage implies a connection to the developing jaw and potentially the middle ear.
- This muscle represents an evolutionary remnant with potential implications for craniofacial development.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate its functional significance.
Abstract:
The arrangement of the pterygospinosus muscle was analyzed in 5 human fetuses. The pterygospinosus muscle extends from the posterior border of the lateral lamina of the pterygoid process to Meckel's cartilage. Such an arrangement would permit its action on the joint formed by Meckel's cartilage and the incus of the middle ear. The pterygospinosus muscle is a remnant of the masticatory muscle group. The relationships of the pterygospinosus muscle with the mandibular nerve and its branches and the maxillary artery and its branches were analyzed.